Disc Herniation

A herniated disc can be painful, frustrating, and even frightening—but it’s also highly treatable. At Access Physical Therapy, we offer structured, evidence-based care to reduce nerve irritation, restore spinal mobility, and help you return to daily life with less pain and greater confidence.

What It Is

Between each vertebra in your spine sits a disc—a cushion-like structure that absorbs shock and allows flexibility. A disc herniation (also called a “slipped” or “ruptured” disc) occurs when the soft inner core of the disc pushes out through the tougher outer layer. This can compress nearby nerves and lead to:

• Sharp pain in the neck or back

• Numbness or tingling in the arms or legs

• Muscle weakness

• Limited mobility

• Sciatic symptoms (in cases affecting the lower back)

Disc herniations most commonly occur in the cervical (neck) and lumbar (lower back) spine.

What to Expect

Your treatment plan will be personalized based on the location and severity of the herniation. We focus on:

• Reducing pressure on the affected nerve

• Improving spinal alignment and mobility

• Decreasing inflammation and muscle guarding

• Strengthening the core and supporting muscles

• Teaching safe movement and posture strategies

• Promoting gradual return to work, sport, or activity

We also provide support for post-surgical rehab, if discectomy or spinal fusion has been performed.

Who It’s For

• Individuals diagnosed with a disc herniation via imaging

• People experiencing sharp, shooting, or radiating pain

• Patients recovering from spinal procedures

• Those with numbness, weakness, or tingling in the limbs

• Anyone with limited motion due to spinal pain

Why It Matters

A herniated disc doesn’t have to mean permanent limitations. With a thoughtful and progressive approach, many patients recover fully without surgery, regaining control of their movement, strength, and quality of life.