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Herniated Disc

Overview

A herniated disc (also known as a slipped or bulging disc) occurs when the soft inner material of an intervertebral disc pushes through the outer layer, irritating nearby nerves.
This can cause pain, numbness, or weakness, typically in the lower back or down one leg. Herniated discs often result from repetitive strain, poor lifting mechanics, or degenerative changes over time.

Signs & Symptoms

- Sharp or shooting pain in the lower back, buttock, or leg
- Numbness or tingling (often following a specific nerve path)
- Muscle weakness in the leg or foot
- Increased pain with sitting, bending, or coughing
- Relief when lying flat or walking short distances

Causes

- Repetitive spinal loading or poor lifting technique
- Prolonged sitting with poor posture
- Weak core muscles and poor spinal stability
- Age-related disc degeneration
- Sudden twisting or trauma

How a Chiropractor Can Help

At Unify Rehab & Performance, our first step is a thorough neurological and movement-based assessment to confirm the source of nerve irritation and identify contributing movement dysfunctions.

Treatment may include:

- Chiropractic adjustments and mobilizations to improve spinal mechanics and reduce pressure on affected nerves.
- Soft tissue therapy to address tightness and compensations in surrounding muscles.
- Acupuncture to alleviate nerve-related pain and support healing.
- Rehabilitation exercises targeting core stabilization, hip mobility, and gradual spinal loading to restore function.
- Education on posture and load management to prevent recurrence.

Our integrated approach focuses on improving how your body moves and loads, ensuring sustainable recovery—not just pain masking.

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