Chiropractor for Herniated Disc in Milwaukee, WI

A herniated, bulging, or slipped disc in your back or neck? Let’s look for what’s behind it.

Trusted, personal care in neighborhood clinics throughout Greater Milwaukee.

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Understanding disc problems

What is a herniated disc?

Discs are the cushions between the bones of your spine. Each one has a soft, gel-like center and a firmer outer layer.3

A herniated disc happens when the soft center pushes out through a tear in that outer layer. If it presses on a nearby nerve, it can cause pain, numbness, or weakness.1 You may also hear it called a bulging, slipped, ruptured, or protruding disc.3

Herniated discs happen most often in the lower back and the neck. They’re rare in the mid back.3 Some people have one and never feel it.1

Bulging disc vs. herniated disc: what’s the difference?
3 million+

people in the U.S. get a herniated disc each year, according to Cleveland Clinic. Ages 30 to 50 are most affected.3

9 in 10

people with a herniated disc improve on their own or with nonsurgical care3

63%

of herniated lower back discs shrank on follow-up imaging with nonsurgical care, in a 2020 review of 38 studies5

Symptoms

Herniated disc symptoms: what you may notice

Symptoms depend on where the disc is and whether it presses on a nerve. They usually affect one side of the body.1

  • Lower back

    Lower back pain

    A disc in the lower back can cause back pain. Pain may also spread into the buttock.3

  • Leg

    Pain down one leg

    Pain can travel to the thigh, calf, or foot. This is sciatica.1

  • Neck

    Neck pain

    Pain at the back and sides of the neck, often worse when you bend or turn it.3

  • Arm

    Shoulder and arm pain

    Often sharp or burning. It may reach the hand and fingers.1,3

  • Upper back

    Pain between the shoulder blades

    A disc in the neck can send pain to the area between your shoulder blades.3

  • Nerves

    Numbness or tingling

    You may feel it in the area the irritated nerve serves, such as a leg, foot, arm, or hand.1

  • Strength

    Weakness

    Muscles linked to the nerve may weaken. You may drop things or feel unsteady when you walk.1

  • Triggers

    Pain with coughing or sneezing

    Arm pain from a neck disc often gets worse when you cough, sneeze, or move a certain way.1

Pain, numbness, or tingling running down your leg? See sciatica. Arm pain or numbness from your neck? See pinched nerve in the neck.

When to seek medical care first

Most disc problems aren’t an emergency. Rarely, a disc presses on the nerves at the base of the spine (cauda equina syndrome). That is a medical emergency.1 Other signs also need a medical doctor before chiropractic care.

Go to the emergency room now if you have:

  • Trouble controlling your bladder or bowels, or trouble urinating when your bladder feels full1
  • Numbness in the “saddle” area: the inner thighs, the backs of the legs, or around the rectum1
  • Pain, numbness, or weakness that keeps getting worse and makes daily activities hard1

Get medical care right away if:

  • Your back pain comes with a fever9
  • Your pain started after a fall, a blow to the back, or another injury9

See a medical doctor promptly if:

  • Weakness in a leg or arm keeps getting worse, or you have trouble walking or standing1,2
  • Your hands feel clumsy, buttons or small objects get hard to handle, or your balance or walking changes. These can be signs of pressure on the spinal cord in your neck.8
  • Your back pain comes with weight loss you can’t explain9
Causes

What causes a herniated disc?

Discs wear with age. They become less flexible and more likely to tear, even with a minor strain or twist. Often, there’s no single clear cause.1

Age-related disc wear Lifting with your back Twisting while lifting A fall or blow (rare)

Hurt after a crash? See car accident injuries.

What about degenerative disc disease?

Despite the name, degenerative disc disease isn’t really a disease. It describes discs wearing down, which is a normal part of aging. Almost everyone has some disc wear after age 40, often with no symptoms.7

It can cause back pain in about 5% of adults. That pain tends to come and go, and sitting, bending, or lifting can make it worse.7 Staying active and learning how to move well can help. See care for seniors.

What can raise your risk

Physically demanding work

Jobs with lifting, pulling, pushing, bending, or twisting raise the risk. Long hours of driving also raise it.1 See care for physical jobs.

Age, sex, and family history

Herniated discs are most common between ages 30 and 50. Men get them about twice as often as women, and they run in families.3

Extra weight and smoking

Extra body weight adds stress to the discs in your lower back. Smoking may reduce blood flow to the discs.1

Sitting a lot and not moving much

Long periods of sitting and a lack of exercise are both linked to herniated discs.1,3

Regular exercise for your core and back, a healthy weight, and lifting with your legs can help protect your discs.1

Where it is

Where is your disc problem?

Where your disc is shapes what you feel. Use this guide as a starting point, not a diagnosis.

Disc wear shows up on imaging in 37% of people at age 20 and 96% at age 80, even without pain.4 That’s why your exam matters more than any single finding.

WhereWhat you may noticeWhat to know
Lower back (most common)Lower back pain, plus pain, numbness, or tingling that can run down one leg into the foot.3Leg symptoms mean a nerve is involved. See sciatica. For general back pain, see lower back pain.
NeckNeck pain, pain between the shoulder blades, and pain or numbness into the arm and hand.3Arm symptoms mean a nerve is involved. See pinched nerve in the neck. For general neck pain, see neck pain.
Mid backRare. Discs in the upper and mid back don’t herniate often.3Your exam checks for other causes of mid back pain, too.
No symptomsDisc changes on imaging are common in people with no pain. In one review of people without back pain, 30% at age 20 and 84% at age 80 had disc bulges.4A disc finding isn’t always the cause of your pain. Your exam looks at how you move and feel, not just a scan.
Your care

How chiropractic care helps with a herniated disc

Your chiropractor for herniated disc care starts by listening: when it started, what makes it worse, and what you want to get back to. Then your doctor checks how your back or neck moves. The exam also tests the strength, reflexes, and feeling in your arms or legs.

Our clinics take X-rays only, and only if your exam calls for them. An X-ray can’t show a herniated disc, but it can help rule out other problems, such as a fracture.2 For many people, an exam and health history are enough.2

If you need an MRI, a medical doctor orders it. That may happen with worsening weakness, warning signs, or when surgery is being considered.2 Surgery decisions belong to a physician, and we’ll refer you when you need one.

Is chiropractic safe with a herniated disc?

Safety starts with screening. Your doctor checks for warning signs and tests your nerves before any care begins. Adjustments are used only when your doctor finds them appropriate and you agree.

Neck adjustments are less common for disc problems. In rare cases, they can lead to serious side effects, such as certain types of stroke.2 You can always choose gentle options instead.

Care is natural and drug-free, designed around your condition, your medical history, your daily life, and your goals. Your doctor explains the options, and you decide what’s right for you.

What the research says about recovery

Most herniated discs get better with time. A spine guideline group agreed that most patients improve regardless of treatment, and that herniated discs often shrink.10 A 2020 review of 38 studies found 63% shrank with nonsurgical care.5

What the research says about hands-on care

Evidence on hands-on care for disc-related nerve pain is limited. A 2021 review of 27 trials found 93% were of moderate or low quality. Exercise programs did help.6 Spinal adjustment may help low back pain that lasts more than a month.2 So your doctor pairs hands-on care with exercise and activity guidance.

What your care may include

Good to know

If you don’t want an adjustment

Say so, and your doctor won’t adjust you. Gentle joint movement, muscle work, and exercise are other options. You choose your care.

Your plan

Care you choose

Your doctor explains what the exam found and your options in plain language. You decide what fits your goals.

Hands-on

Spinal adjustments, when appropriate

Used only when your exam shows they fit and you agree. Your doctor explains each step first.

Gentle option

Gentle joint movement and muscle work

Slow, controlled movements and hands-on muscle work for a stiff, sore back or neck.

Rehab

Core and back exercises

Stretches and strengthening exercises for your core, taught step by step.2

Daily life

Activity guidance

Tips for staying active, sitting, sleeping, and lifting with your legs instead of your back.1

Select clinics

Physical therapy

Available at our Menomonee Falls, Waukesha, and West Allis North clinics.

Select clinics

Massage therapy

Available at our Hales Corners and Oconomowoc clinics.

Recovery

How long does a herniated disc take to heal?

Most herniated discs heal on their own within about four to six weeks. Most people feel better within a month.3 Symptoms often ease within a few days or weeks of simple care.2

Some people take longer. Pain can flare up and settle again along the way. If symptoms last beyond four to six weeks of care, check in with a medical provider.3

Most people don’t need surgery. A physician may suggest it if symptoms don’t improve after six weeks, or with significant weakness, trouble walking, or bladder or bowel changes.2 Chiropractic care doesn’t replace surgery when you need it. We’ll help you get the right referral.

How long does a herniated disc take to heal?
4–6 weeks

is about how long most herniated discs take to heal on their own, according to Cleveland Clinic.3

Insurance and your first visit

Care that fits your coverage

We’re in-network with most insurance plans, including Medicare, and our team can check your benefits before you come in. No insurance? New patients can start with the $29 first visit.

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  • X-rays if needed
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In-network with most insurance companies
  • Most commercial plans
  • Medicare
  • Auto accident claims
  • Workers’ compensation
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Your first visit

What to expect at your first visit

  1. Share your story

    Your doctor asks when the pain started, what makes it better or worse, your daily activities, and your goals.

  2. Get a thorough exam

    Your doctor checks how your back or neck moves, where it’s tender, and the strength, reflexes, and sensation in your arms or legs. X-rays are taken if needed.

  3. Talk through your options

    Your doctor explains what they found and walks you through care options. You decide what's right for you.

  4. Begin care at your next visit

    Treatment begins at visit two. In acute cases, your doctor may decide same-day treatment is appropriate.

You'll see the same doctor as your care continues, so the person treating you knows your history and your progress.

Your care team

Meet Milwaukee chiropractors who care for disc problems

Our chiropractors see patients with herniated and bulging discs every week. These doctors bring backgrounds that fit patients with disc problems.

[Doctor name], DC

DC · [Clinic]
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[One or two sentences on this doctor’s background with disc problems.]

More about Dr. [Name]

[Doctor name], DC

DC · [Clinic]
[Focus area][Focus area]

[One or two sentences on this doctor’s background with disc problems.]

More about Dr. [Name]

[Doctor name], DC

DC · [Clinic]
[Focus area][Focus area]

[One or two sentences on this doctor’s background with disc problems.]

More about Dr. [Name]
Meet your care team
Why Milwaukee trusts us

Trusted by Greater Milwaukee since 1982

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Winners and finalists, including our doctors and practices before they joined us. See every award, with sources

Common questions

Frequently asked questions about herniated discs

It can be part of your care. Your doctor examines your back or neck and checks your nerves to look for what’s behind your pain. Research on hands-on care for disc-related nerve pain is limited, so care pairs it with exercise and activity guidance. Serious signs need a medical referral.

Your doctor screens you first for warning signs and tests your nerves. Adjustments are used only when your doctor finds them appropriate and you agree. Neck adjustments are less common for disc problems and, in rare cases, can cause serious side effects. You can always choose gentle options instead.

It depends on where the disc is. In the lower back, you may feel back pain and pain, numbness, or tingling down one leg. In the neck, you may feel neck, shoulder, or arm pain. Weakness can happen in either case.

You’ll hear both terms, along with slipped and ruptured disc. Imaging reports may list bulges and herniations separately. Both are common in people with no pain at all. Your doctor explains what your exam shows and what it means for you.

Most herniated discs heal on their own within about four to six weeks, and most people feel better within a month. Some take longer. If symptoms last beyond four to six weeks of care, check in with a medical provider.

It isn’t really a disease. It describes discs wearing down with age, which happens to almost everyone after 40. Many people have no symptoms. When it does cause pain, the pain tends to come and go.

Not always. For many people, an exam and health history are enough. Our clinics take X-rays only, and an X-ray can’t show a herniated disc. If you need an MRI, a medical doctor orders it.

A physician makes that call. Surgery may be suggested if symptoms don’t improve after six weeks, or with significant weakness, trouble walking, or bladder or bowel changes. Most people don’t need surgery, and we’ll help you get a referral if you do.

Stretches and exercises that strengthen your core can help. Your doctor or physical therapist teaches them step by step and adjusts them to your pain. Avoid movements that make your symptoms worse until you’ve been checked.

Go to the emergency room for trouble controlling your bladder or bowels, or numbness in your inner thighs or around the rectum. Get care fast for pain, numbness, or weakness that keeps getting worse. Clumsy hands or balance changes need a medical doctor promptly.

Tell your doctor and they won’t adjust you. Gentle joint movement, muscle work, and exercises are other ways to care for a disc problem. Your doctor explains the options, and you decide what’s right for you.

Often, yes. Same-day appointments are available at many of our clinics, depending on the day and each clinic’s hours. Call your nearest clinic or request an appointment online to check today’s openings. Your first visit is for your consultation and exam, and treatment typically begins at your next visit.

Usually not. Your first visit is for listening, a full exam, and X-rays if needed. Treatment begins at visit two. In acute cases, your doctor may decide same-day treatment is appropriate.

No referral is needed. Some insurance plans may require one for full benefits. Our team checks your plan when you verify your insurance and lets you know before your visit.

Eligible new patients can request a first visit for $29, including a consultation, an exam, and X-rays if needed. The offer requires requesting an appointment online and a visit within five business days. Medicare and Medicaid patients aren’t eligible.

Chiropractic Company has 20+ neighborhood clinics across Greater Milwaukee, and every one offers chiropractic care for herniated and bulging discs. Find a location close to your home or work.
Milwaukee-area chiropractic clinics near you

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Keep reading
Article

Bulging Disc vs. Herniated Disc: What’s the Difference?

A bulging disc spreads outward; a herniated disc pushes through a tear.

Article

How Long Does a Herniated Disc Take to Heal?

Most herniated discs heal in about four to six weeks, but some take months.

Related conditions

SciaticaPinched nerve in the neckLower back painNeck painCar accident injuries

Related services

Patient resources

Sources

  1. Mayo Clinic. Herniated disk: Symptoms and causes.
  2. Mayo Clinic. Herniated disk: Diagnosis and treatment.
  3. Cleveland Clinic. Herniated disk.
  4. Brinjikji W, Luetmer PH, Comstock B, et al. Systematic literature review of imaging features of spinal degeneration in asymptomatic populations. American Journal of Neuroradiology. 2015;36(4):811–816.
  5. Wang Y, Dai G, Jiang L, Liao S. The incidence of regression after the non-surgical treatment of symptomatic lumbar disc herniation: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders. 2020;21(1).
  6. Kuligowski T, Skrzek A, Cieślik B. Manual therapy in cervical and lumbar radiculopathy: a systematic review of the literature. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2021;18(11):6176.
  7. Cleveland Clinic. Degenerative disk disease.
  8. Cleveland Clinic. Myelopathy.
  9. Mayo Clinic. Back pain: Symptoms and causes.
  10. North American Spine Society. Diagnosis and Treatment of Lumbar Disc Herniation with Radiculopathy (evidence-based clinical guideline). 2012.
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