Disc Herniation
A bulged or torn spinal disc that may irritate nearby nerves and cause radiating pain.
A disc herniation occurs when the soft, gel-like nucleus of an intervertebral disc pushes through tears or weak points in the outer annulus fibrosus. When this displaced tissue contacts a nearby nerve root, it can produce both local back pain and radiating limb symptoms. Critically, MRI studies (Brinjikji et al., AJNR 2015) show that 30% of asymptomatic 20-year-olds and over 80% of asymptomatic 70-year-olds have disc bulges or herniations on imaging — meaning the presence of a herniation on MRI does not automatically explain the pain.
Symptoms vary with the size and location of the herniation. Patients commonly report deep, localized back pain alongside radiating pain, numbness, or tingling into a specific leg or arm distribution. Sitting, forward bending, and Valsalva maneuvers (coughing, sneezing, straining) typically worsen symptoms, while walking and lying down often provide relief. Progressive weakness or changes in bowel/bladder function are red flags requiring immediate evaluation.
Disc herniations are most common between ages 30 and 50, when the nucleus is still hydrated enough to extrude but the annulus has begun to weaken. Heavy lifters, deadlift- and rowing-focused athletes, construction workers, and individuals with repetitive flexion-loading jobs are at elevated risk. Smoking, sedentary lifestyle, and prior lumbar injury all increase incidence.
A combined, root-cause approach.
Research consistently shows the majority of disc herniations resolve favorably without surgery — and that resorption of the herniated material occurs in 60–70% of cases over 6–12 months (Chiu et al., Clin Rehabil 2015). We use the McKenzie Method to identify your directional preference, mobilize and decompress the involved segment, calm the nerve with neurodynamic techniques, and rebuild spinal endurance and hip mobility so the disc can heal under controlled load.
- McKenzie Method
- Spinal decompression-style mobilization
- Targeted nerve flossing
- Progressive loading rehab
Related Conditions
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Aching, stiffness, or sharp pain in the lumbar spine that limits bending, sitting, or standing.
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Sciatica
Pain, tingling, or numbness that travels from the low back through the glute and down the leg.