Herniated Disc Treatment in Levittown, NY
Discs are the cushions between the vertebrae. A herniated disc happens when the soft center pushes through the tougher outer ring, which can irritate nearby nerves and send pain from the back or neck into a leg or arm.
Many herniated discs respond to conservative care. At Long Island Back & Neck Care that means gentle adjustments that take pressure off the injured level, corrective exercises for the core and posture, and advice on sitting and lifting while the disc heals.
- Pain that is worse when sitting, bending or coughing
- Leg pain from a disc in the lower back
- Arm pain from a disc in the neck
- Numbness or tingling
What Causes a Herniated Disc?
Discs wear with age, and years of sitting, bending and lifting add strain. A herniation can happen suddenly with a heavy lift or a twist, or build slowly over time. Car accidents and falls can also injure a disc.
When the disc material presses on a nerve root, it can cause sciatica in the leg or a pinched nerve in the neck and arm. Some herniated discs cause only back pain or neck pain.
Non-Surgical Herniated Disc Treatment
- Gentle, low-force chiropractic adjustments
- Massage therapy to ease protective muscle spasm
- Acupuncture for nerve pain
- Core and posture exercises
- Advice on sitting, sleeping and lifting while you heal
Care is part of a structured pain management and rehabilitation plan, with progress checked at set points.
When Imaging or a Referral Is Needed
If your symptoms are severe, getting worse or include significant weakness, we recommend an MRI or referral to a specialist. You will always know where you stand and what your options are.
Herniated Disc FAQs
Is a herniated disc the same as a bulging disc?
Not quite. A bulging disc spreads evenly past its normal space. A herniated disc has a tear that lets the inner material push out. Both can press on a nerve.
Will I need surgery?
Most people with a herniated disc do not. Surgery is considered for serious or growing weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, or pain that does not improve with conservative care.
Is it safe to adjust a herniated disc?
The methods are chosen for the condition. Techniques for disc patients are gentle and avoid positions that increase your leg or arm pain.
How long does a herniated disc take to heal?
Many patients improve over 6 to 12 weeks of conservative care. Recovery depends on the size of the herniation and how well you can avoid the activities that aggravate it.
Do I need an MRI to start treatment?
Usually not. An examination can identify the likely level involved. Imaging is recommended if symptoms are severe or do not improve.
Can exercise help a herniated disc?
Yes. The right exercises strengthen the muscles that support the spine and reduce pressure on the disc. Your program will avoid movements that worsen your symptoms.
When is a herniated disc an emergency?
Loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness in the groin, or rapidly worsening leg weakness needs emergency care right away.
Get Help for a Herniated Disc in Levittown
We keep evening hours on Tuesday and Thursday and are open Saturday mornings, so treatment does not have to cost you a working day. Request an appointment online or call (516) 579-4949.