Herniated Disc in Brisbane

A herniated disc, also known as a slipped or bulging disc, occurs when the soft inner material of a spinal disc pushes through the tougher outer layer, potentially compressing nearby nerves. This condition most commonly affects the lumbar spine (lower back) and cervical spine (neck), causing localised pain, radiating pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or legs. Herniated discs are a frequent presentation in chiropractic clinics across Australia and respond well to conservative management in the majority of cases.

Chiropractic treatment for herniated discs is gentle, targeted, and evidence-based. Your chiropractor will conduct a thorough neurological and orthopaedic examination, and may refer for MRI to confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of the herniation. Treatment commonly involves flexion-distraction technique, a specialised low-force approach that gently decompresses the disc and promotes healing. Additional therapies may include specific spinal adjustments away from the affected level, soft-tissue therapy, nerve mobilisation techniques, and a carefully progressed exercise rehabilitation program focusing on core stability.

Research in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics has shown that patients with lumbar disc herniation treated with spinal manipulation had outcomes comparable to those who underwent surgery. The vast majority of herniated discs — approximately 90 percent — resolve with conservative care. Your chiropractor will monitor your neurological status throughout treatment and will refer for surgical consultation if symptoms worsen or if progressive neurological deficits are identified.