Symptoms & Conditions

Herniated Disc

Chiropractic Care for Herniated Disc in London, ON

If you’re experiencing constant back discomfort or sharp pain in your neck that limits your daily activities, you’re not alone. At Cafe of Life Chiropractic Studio, we offer complimentary support for herniated disc concerns through gentle chiropractic care. To get started, book a consultation or call us today at (519) 439-5353.

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What are Herniated Discs or Bulging Discs?

A herniated disc, sometimes called a slipped disc, occurs when the soft center of a spinal disc—called the nucleus pulposus—pushes through a tear in the outer annulus fibrosus. These discs act as shock absorbers between the vertebrae in your spine and help with smooth movement and flexibility. When this soft material protrudes outward, it can press on nearby nerves and result in pain, tingling, or numbness.

Several things can cause a bulging or herniated disc. Common causes are wear and tear from aging, repetitive movements, lifting heavy objects incorrectly, or trauma from an accident. Poor posture, stress, and even sitting for long periods can put pressure on the spine and increase the risk of disc injury or disc degeneration. Over time, discs can dry out and become less flexible, and degenerative disc disease can occur.

Areas of the Spine Affected by Herniated Disc

A herniated disc can occur in different areas of the spine, and the area of the spine affected will determine the symptoms you will experience. The most common areas are the lower back and the neck. When a disc herniates, it can press on nearby nerves and cause discomfort, numbness, tingling, or even weakness in different parts of the body. Knowing which part of the spine is involved will help you determine the best course of care. Below are the two main areas where herniated discs occur.

Lumbar

The lumbar region refers to the lower back, and it is one of the most common areas impacted by a herniated disc. When a disc in this area bulges or slips out of place, it can cause chronic low back pain and may also trigger pain that radiates down the legs—a condition commonly known as sciatica. Some people experience muscle spasms and a limited range of motion due to the inflammation and nerve pressure. The discomfort often worsens when sitting or bending for extended periods. In such cases, supportive therapies like spinal decompression can help relieve pressure on the spinal nerves and promote greater comfort.

Cervical Spine

The cervical spine, located in the neck, is another area where herniated discs frequently occur. A herniated disc in this region can result in neck pain, stiffness, and pain that radiates down the shoulders, arms, or hands. Because this area contains many spinal nerves, compression can lead to symptoms like numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness in the upper limbs. Everyday tasks such as lifting objects, turning the head, or using a computer may become more difficult. Complementary chiropractic care can offer support by gently relieving pressure on affected nerves and improving mobility in the cervical spine.

Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Herniated Disc

Chiropractic care for a herniated disc provides a gentle, non-invasive way to support your body's natural healing process. At Cafe of Life Chiropractic Studio, we offer care that complements other treatment options while focusing on reducing pain and improving your overall health.

Pain Reduction: Chiropractic adjustments and spinal decompression therapy may help relieve pressure on spinal nerves, which can reduce pain caused by disc herniation or disc protrusion.
Improved Movement: By restoring better alignment in the spine, chiropractic care can support improved flexibility and make daily movement more comfortable.
Posture Correction: Poor posture puts unnecessary stress on intervertebral discs. Chiropractic care can help improve posture and reduce pressure on the spinal cord and damaged disc areas.
Long-Term Wellbeing: Ongoing chiropractic care is focused on optimal health and long-term wellbeing by addressing the underlying causes of spinal issues and supporting your nervous system function.

Chiropractic for Herniated Disc

At Cafe of Life Chiropractic Studio, we follow a supportive and individualized process when providing chiropractic care for herniated discs. We want to help reduce pain and pressure and improve your quality of life.

First Visit and Consultation: During your first visit, we will discuss your symptoms, medical history, lifestyle, and any past disc injuries. This helps us understand the areas of concern and whether chiropractic care can be a helpful addition to what you are currently doing.
Examination and Diagnosis: A physical exam helps us assess your spinal alignment, nerve responses, and mobility. In some cases we may recommend X-rays or an MRI to better understand the extent of your disc pathology or disc degeneration.
Customized Care Plan: Based on our findings, we will create a care plan tailored to your needs. This may include spinal decompression therapy, specific chiropractic adjustments, and exercises that reduce pressure on your spine and surrounding muscles.
Gentle Chiropractic Adjustments: We use non-invasive techniques such as spinal adjustments to gently restore mobility in the spine. Our methods are designed to not put further stress on the damaged disc or spinal nerves and may help improve fluid flow and reduce inflammation.
Ongoing Monitoring and Education: We monitor your progress and adjust your care as needed. We also guide you through posture corrections, lifestyle changes, and activities that may support better healing and reduce the chance of future slipped disc or spinal issues.

Why Choose Cafe of Life Chiropractic Studio?

At Cafe of Life Chiropractic Studio, we believe in supporting the body’s natural ability to heal and feel its best. Our care is focused on addressing pain, improving spinal function, and encouraging long-term health—without invasive procedures. We are proud to be members of the Canadian Chiropractic Association, offering care that aligns with national standards for safety and wellness.

Personalized Care Plans: We take the time to get to know you and create a plan that fits your lifestyle, goals, and symptoms. No two bodies are the same, and your care shouldn’t be either.
Natural Healing: Our approach supports your body to heal itself. We use chiropractic techniques and supportive therapies to promote a healthier spine and nervous system.
Comfortable, Caring Environment: From your first visit, we work hard to make you feel at home. Our team is here to listen, guide, and support you every step of the way.
Recommended by the Community: Cafe of Life Chiropractic Studio is well known in London for gentle, quality care. Our patients love the long-term relief and overall health benefits they get from our care.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will it take to see improvement?

Everyone’s body heals at a different pace, so the timeline can vary depending on your specific condition. Some people notice relief after just a few visits, while others may take a few weeks to feel consistent improvement. We will monitor your progress and adapt your care plan as needed. It’s important to follow the full course of your chiropractic care to achieve the best results. Our main goal is to support your journey toward pain reduction and better function.

Will chiropractic care fix my herniated disc or just relieve the symptoms?

Chiropractic care doesn’t fix a herniated disc, but it can relieve symptoms and reduce pain. Our approach is complementary to other treatments you may be doing. We reduce pressure on nerves, improve mobility, and support your spine. You may feel more comfortable and have a better quality of life. We help you feel and move better without surgery.

How many sessions will I likely need?

The number of sessions needed depends on the severity of your disc herniation and your body’s response to care. After your first visit and assessment, we will provide a recommended care plan. Some people may need several weeks of care, while others may require fewer visits. We aim to provide clear expectations and flexible scheduling based on your goals. Ongoing support can also help maintain spinal health and prevent future flare-ups.

Is it normal to feel sore after an adjustment if I have a herniated disc?

Yes, mild soreness is normal after a chiropractic adjustment, especially if it's your first experience. This soreness typically feels like post-exercise stiffness and usually goes away within a day or two. Your body is adjusting to improved alignment and movement, which can activate muscles that haven’t been used much. We use gentle techniques to keep you comfortable while supporting your healing. Let us know how you're feeling so we can tailor your care accordingly.

What lifestyle changes should I make to heal?

Avoid heavy lifting and high-impact activities while your spine is healing. Simple lifestyle changes like good posture, rest, and gentle stretches can make a big difference. Staying hydrated and managing stress also helps healthy disc function and nervous system balance. If you work at a desk, we can give you ergonomic tips to reduce pressure on your spine. These work alongside your chiropractic care to promote long-term well-being.

If you’re ready to explore non-invasive care for your herniated disc symptoms, we’re here to help. At Cafe of Life Chiropractic Studio, our team offers gentle chiropractic care to support your comfort and healing journey. Don’t let a bulging disc or disc injury keep you from living fully. Call us today at (519) 439-5353 to schedule your consultation.

We look forward to welcoming you to our studio and supporting your wellness journey.