Back pain is one of the most common health complaints worldwide, and one of the leading causes is a slipped disc — also known as a herniated disc or disc bulge. This painful and sometimes debilitating condition can significantly affect your mobility and quality of life.
If you’ve been diagnosed with a slipped disc, or you suspect you may have one, you might be wondering: Can a chiropractor help?
The answer for many people is yes — chiropractic care can be an effective, non-invasive treatment option for herniated discs.
In this blog, we’ll explore what a slipped or herniated disc is, what causes it, the symptoms to look out for, and how a chiropractor can help relieve pain and support recovery.
What is a slipped or herniated disc?
Your spine is made up of 24 bones (vertebrae), separated by intervertebral discs. These discs act as cushions, providing flexibility and absorbing shock during movement. Each disc has a soft, gel-like centre (nucleus pulposus) surrounded by a tough outer layer (annulus fibrosus).
A herniated disc occurs when the soft inner material pushes through a crack or weakness in the outer layer. This can irritate or compress nearby nerves — especially in the lower back or neck — leading to pain, numbness, or weakness.
The term “slipped disc” is commonly used but slightly misleading, as the disc doesn’t actually slip out of place — it herniates or bulges.
Common causes of a slipped disc
A slipped disc can happen suddenly or develop over time due to wear and tear. Common causes include:
- Poor posture or sitting for a long time
- Lifting heavy objects incorrectly
- Repetitive movements or twisting
- Degenerative disc disease (age-related wear)
- Trauma or injury, such as a fall or car accident
- Sedentary lifestyle or lack of core strength
Some people are more prone to disc issues due to genetics, occupation, or chronic poor posture.
Symptoms of a slipped or herniated disc
Symptoms can vary depending on the location and severity of the herniation, but typically include:
- Sharp or burning back pain
- Pain radiating down the leg (sciatica)
- Numbness or tingling in the leg, foot, arm, or hand
- Muscle weakness
- Pain that worsens with movement, sneezing, or sitting
- Reduced mobility or stiffness
In more severe cases, nerve compression may affect bladder or bowel function — this is a medical emergency and requires immediate care.
Can a chiropractor help a herniated disc?
Yes — many people with herniated or slipped discs find significant relief through chiropractic care. Chiropractors are trained to identify spinal issues and create treatment plans that address the underlying cause of your pain, not just the symptoms.
Chiropractic treatment focuses on:
- Restoring spinal alignment
- Reducing pressure on nerves
- Improving mobility
- Supporting natural healing without surgery or medication
What does chiropractic treatment for a herniated disc involve?
If you visit a chiropractor for a suspected or confirmed slipped disc, here’s what you can expect:
1. Comprehensive assessment
Your chiropractor will begin by taking a detailed medical history and discussing your symptoms. They’ll perform a physical examination, testing your reflexes, mobility, and nerve function.
If needed, they may refer you for imaging, such as an MRI or X-ray, to confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent of disc involvement.
2. Individualised treatment plan
Once a diagnosis is confirmed, your chiropractor will develop a treatment plan based on your condition, overall health, and lifestyle. The goal is to reduce pressure on the affected nerve, relieve pain, and support long-term recovery.
3. Spinal adjustments
Chiropractors may use gentle spinal adjustments to help improve spinal mobility and alignment. For disc injuries, the technique used is typically low-force and carefully targeted to avoid aggravating the disc.
4. Soft tissue therapy
Muscle tightness can worsen disc symptoms by pulling on the spine or compressing nerves. Chiropractors often incorporate massage, trigger point therapy, or myofascial release to relax surrounding muscles and improve circulation to the area.
5. Rehabilitation and exercise
Targeted rehabilitative exercises are a key part of disc recovery. Your chiropractor will guide you through stretches and strengthening movements designed to:
- Stabilise your spine
- Strengthen your core
- Improve flexibility
- Prevent further injury
You’ll likely be given home exercises to continue between appointments.
6. Posture and lifestyle advice
Chiropractors take a holistic approach to care. They may provide advice on how to improve posture, sleep ergonomics, workplace setup, and daily habits to support your spine and prevent re-injury.
Benefits of chiropractic care for herniated discs
Many patients report improvements in pain, mobility, and overall well being after a course of chiropractic treatment. Some of the key benefits are:
- Non-surgical, drug-free care
- Reduced nerve irritation and inflammation
- Improved spinal alignment and posture
- Increased mobility and function
- Prevention of future flare-ups
Best of all, chiropractic care targets the root cause rather than masking symptoms, supporting your body’s ability to heal naturally.
Are chiropractic adjustments safe for a herniated disc?
When performed by a qualified and experienced chiropractor, spinal adjustments are considered safe for many people with disc issues. That said, not every patient is a candidate for spinal manipulation, particularly in cases involving:
- Severe disc extrusion
- Progressive neurological symptoms
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
Your chiropractor will always conduct a thorough screening and refer you to another specialist if chiropractic care is not appropriate.
Chiropractic vs surgery for herniated discs
For many people, chiropractic care can prevent the need for surgery. While surgery may be necessary in severe or persistent cases, conservative care should typically be explored first.
Research shows that many patients experience significant relief from herniated disc symptoms with chiropractic treatment, particularly when combined with exercise and lifestyle changes.
When to see a chiropractor for a slipped disc
You should consider seeing a chiropractor if:
- You have ongoing back or neck pain
- Your pain is radiating down a limb
- You have numbness or tingling
- You want a non-invasive treatment option
- You’re looking to avoid or delay surgery
Early intervention often leads to better outcomes — so don’t wait until the pain becomes severe.
Final thoughts
A herniated or slipped disc can be painful and limiting, but you don’t have to suffer through it. With the right care, many people are able to recover fully without the need for surgery.
Chiropractic treatment offers a safe, drug-free, and effective approach to managing disc-related pain, restoring spinal health, and helping you return to the activities you love. By targeting the root cause of the problem and supporting the body’s natural healing process, chiropractic care can be a powerful tool on your road to recovery.
Looking for chiropractic help with a slipped disc in Guildford or London area?
Dr Chris Penter provides expert, individualised care for patients with slipped and herniated discs. If you’re dealing with back pain, nerve irritation, or reduced mobility, we’re here to help you find long-term relief.
Book your consultation today and take the first step toward a healthier spine and a pain-free life.