Herniated Disc Treated in Redlands
Herniated Disc Treatment in Redlands, CA
A herniated or bulging disc can cause back or neck pain along with pain, tingling, or numbness that travels into the arms or legs. At Chiropractic Sports & Injury Center, Dr. Bruce Humphries, DC uses gentle, non-surgical care to take pressure off irritated nerves, reduce pain, and help you return to normal activity.
What Is a Herniated Disc?
Between each of the bones of your spine sits a disc, a tough, flexible cushion with a softer center. Discs absorb shock and allow the spine to bend and twist. When the outer layer weakens or tears, the inner material can bulge or push outward. This is called a bulging, herniated, or “slipped” disc. If the disc presses on a nearby nerve, it can cause pain that travels into the leg, known as sciatica, or into the arm and shoulder.
Common Causes
- Lifting heavy objects with poor technique
- Repeated bending and twisting
- Long periods of sitting
- Sudden trauma from car accidents or sports injuries
- Age-related disc wear
Symptoms of a Herniated Disc
- Low back pain or neck pain
- Pain that travels into the buttock, leg, or foot, or into the shoulder and arm
- Tingling, numbness, or burning
- Muscle weakness
- Pain that worsens with sitting, bending, coughing, or sneezing
Non-Surgical Herniated Disc Care in Redlands
Most disc injuries can be managed without surgery. After a detailed history, exam, and X-rays when needed, Dr. Humphries will design a plan that may include:
- Flexion/distraction and traction to reduce pressure on the disc
- Gentle chiropractic adjustments to restore joint motion
- Heat, ice, and muscle stimulation to calm pain and spasm
- Massage therapy for surrounding muscle tension
- Acupuncture for pain relief
- Core and back exercises to support the spine
- Lifting, sitting, and sleeping advice to protect the disc as it heals
Learn about your first visit on our What to Expect page.
When a Referral Is Needed
If you have severe or worsening weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, or numbness in the groin area, seek emergency care right away. If your exam shows that you need an MRI or a surgical consult, we will refer you to the appropriate specialist.
See all conditions we treat and our full list of chiropractic services.
Herniated Disc FAQs
Can a chiropractor help a herniated disc?
Yes. Many disc injuries respond well to conservative care such as flexion/distraction, traction, gentle adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and exercises.
What is the difference between a bulging and herniated disc?
A bulging disc pushes outward evenly, while a herniated disc has a tear that lets inner material push out. Both can irritate nearby nerves.
Do herniated discs heal on their own?
Many disc injuries improve over time with conservative care. Treatment helps manage pain and protect the disc while it heals.
Will I need surgery for a herniated disc?
Most people do not need surgery. Surgery is usually considered only when conservative care fails or there are serious neurological symptoms.
Do I need an MRI?
Not always. An MRI may be recommended if symptoms are severe, worsening, or not improving with care. We will refer you if one is needed.
What should I avoid with a herniated disc?
Avoid heavy lifting, prolonged sitting, and repeated bending or twisting until your symptoms improve. We will give you specific guidance.
Can a herniated disc cause leg or arm pain?
Yes. A low back disc can cause sciatica down the leg, and a neck disc can cause pain, tingling, or numbness into the shoulder and arm.
Get Help for Your Herniated Disc
Find out if non-surgical care is right for you. Call Chiropractic Sports & Injury Center at (909) 793-9787 or request an appointment online.