Can Chiropractic Care Make a Herniated Disc Worse?

Many people are apprehensive about seeking chiropractic treatment for a herniated disc, fearing the chiropractor will use forceful adjustments that could hurt or even injure their back further. There is a lot of urban legend out there about the safety of chiropractic treatment for disc herniations.

The Truth About Chiropractic Care and Herniated Discs

A recent study in the European Spine Journal concluded that chiropractic treatment for back pain and sciatica due to a bulging or herniated lumbar disc is not risky. The authors found no evidence that chiropractic care increased the risk of acute lumbar disc herniation requiring early surgery compared to primary medical care.

Chiropractors use gentle, low-force techniques to treat herniated discs, not forceful “cracking” adjustments. The gas released from a joint under pressure causes the “popping” sound, similar to opening a can of soda. This does not mean the disc is being forced back into place.

Instead, chiropractic care aims to reduce inflammation, take pressure off the affected nerve, and promote healing of the disc. Chiropractors may use spinal manipulation, manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, and other techniques tailored to the individual patient’s needs and condition.

It’s important to note that while chiropractic care is generally safe for most patients, there are some contraindications. Patients with certain conditions like cauda equina syndrome may require immediate medical attention and referral to a spine specialist.

With proper assessment and conservative treatment, many herniated discs can heal with chiropractic care, just like any other injured tissue in the body. Spontaneous regression of disc herniations is possible, with complete resolution occurring in up to 96% of cases with conservative treatment.