DISC INJURIES

Disc injuries, commonly known as “slipped,” “bulging,” or “herniated” discs, are a common cause of neck and back pain. These injuries occur when the soft, gel-like center of the disc pushes against or through the tougher outer layer, creating inflammation that can irritate nearby nerves.  This often leads to pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness.

Although the diagnosis can sound intimidating, most disc injuries respond very well to conservative care.

Conservative Care for Disc Injuries

At Pinnacle Hill Chiropractic, we take a comprehensive, non-invasive approach to disc injury treatment. Our goal is to relieve pain, restore function, and help you return to an active lifestyle—without unnecessary medications or surgery.

Chiropractic care and massage therapy work together to reduce joint restrictions, relieve nerve irritation, and restore mobility. Because discs cushion each vertebra, even a minor injury can affect the function of the entire spine.

Effective treatment goes beyond spinal adjustments. Soft tissue therapy, decompression techniques, rehabilitative exercises, and ergonomic guidance all play key roles in recovery and long-term spinal health.

Benefits of Integrative Care for Disc Injuries

  • Reduced pain and inflammation
  • Improved spinal mobility and flexibility
  • Decreased muscle tension and spasms
  • Support for natural healing processes
  • Personalized recovery and prevention strategies

Preventing Disc Injury Recurrence

Disc injuries often develop from repetitive stress, poor posture, or improper movement patterns. Our prevention-focused approach helps patients correct these habits and reduce recurrence through:

  • Core and stability exercises to strengthen the spine and decrease disc stress
  • Ergonomic and postural recommendations to optimize workstation setup and promote healthy alignment
  • Safe lifting and movement strategies to protect the spine during work, exercise, and daily activities
  • Lifestyle and stress-management guidance to reduce tension and support long-term healing

Common Symptoms of Disc Injuries

  • Localized back or neck pain
  • Sciatica (radiating pain into the leg)
  • Tingling, numbness, or weakness in the arms or legs
  • Pain aggravated by sitting, bending, or lifting
  • Stiffness or reduced spinal mobility
  • Muscle spasms or guarding
  • Difficulty standing or walking for long periods

What Causes Disc Injuries?

  • Herniated or bulging discs
  • Degenerative disc changes
  • Repetitive movement or poor mechanics
  • Heavy lifting or improper posture
  • Prolonged sitting or sedentary lifestyle
  • Traumatic injuries (falls, accidents)
  • Weak core or poor spinal stability

Who Can Benefit from Disc Injury Treatment?

Our conservative disc care may benefit:

  • Individuals with herniated or bulging discs
  • Patients experiencing sciatica or nerve irritation
  • Those with chronic neck or low back pain
  • People with stiffness and reduced spinal mobility
  • Anyone seeking effective, drug-free, non-surgical pain relief

Our Integrated Treatment Approach

We combine multiple evidence-based therapies to support recovery and long-term spinal health. Your individualized treatment plan may include:

  • Chiropractic Adjustments: Restore motion in restricted spinal joints and reduce nerve irritation.
  • Massage Therapy: Release muscle tension, improve circulation, and reduce protective spasms.
  • Nutrition Counseling: Dr. Rachel Stummer (MS in Clinical Nutrition) offers anti-inflammatory dietary guidance to support healing.
  • Infrared Sauna Therapy: Promotes circulation, decreases stiffness, reduces inflammation, and encourages relaxation.

By combining these therapies, our team helps restore spinal function, reduce pain, and support disc recovery.

Techniques & Modalities We Use

Hands-On Techniques

Supportive Modalities

  • Massage Therapy – Provide relaxation and enhance soft tissue recovery
  • Nutritional Planning – Support healing and reduce inflammation with targeted dietary guidance
  • Infrared Sauna Sessions – Promote recovery, circulation, and flexibility
  • Lifestyle & Movement Modifications – Improve posture and build long-term healthy habits

Ready to Find Relief?

Disc injuries don’t have to control your life. With the right care, most patients experience significant improvement and return to normal activities without invasive procedures.

Schedule an appointment today and take the first step toward lasting relief.



Frequently Asked Questions About Disc Injuries

No. Most disc injuries respond well to conservative care such as chiropractic, massage therapy, nutrition counseling, and lifestyle changes. Surgery is considered only for severe or unresponsive cases.



When performed by trained professionals, chiropractic adjustments are safe and effective. Our chiropractors thoroughly evaluate your condition and use techniques appropriate to your needs.

Recovery varies based on severity, lifestyle factors, and treatment consistency. Many patients notice improvement within weeks of consistent care.

Yes. Inflammation contributes to disc pain. Dr. Rachel provides customized nutrition and lifestyle strategies to support healing and reduce recurrence.

Maintain good posture, practice prescribed core exercises, use an ergonomic setup, and stay active as guided by your provider.

For additional information, please refer to our Patient Information page.