Disc Lesions With Neural Compression
Lumbar Disc Herniation Care –
Back pain and sciatica can feel frightening, especially if you’ve been told you have a disc bulge or herniation. But not all herniated discs spell bad news. In fact, many are highly treatable without surgery when the right strategy is followed.
At Marsden Park Chiropractic, we help patients recover from disc pain and nerve irritation with personalised care that focuses on natural healing, mobility, and long‑term spine health.
Other
Back Pain
Neck Pain
Headaches & Migraines
Sciatica
Sports Injuries
Posture Problems
Slipped Disc
Workplace Injuries
Neck Pain
- Whiplash
- Non-specific Neck Pain
- Torticollis
Understanding
When you first see an MRI report, the words “large disc protrusion” can sound severe. But context matters:
- Disc height preserved → indicates better overall spinal health.
- No Modic changes → fewer degenerative bone changes, better healing potential.
- Annular failure vs endplate failure → if the protrusion comes mainly from the disc nucleus, it is usually more responsive to natural resorption.
- Large, nucleus‑rich protrusions → may actually shrink faster than smaller, fibrous lesions.
Pain:
Nerve pain often comes less from the “squash” of the nerve and more from inflammation:
- Cytokines (chemical irritants like TNF‑α) sensitise nerve tissue.
- This creates the sharp, burning, radiating leg pain known as sciatica.
- Managing inflammation is just as important as taking pressure off the nerve.
Management Options
Conservative Care
- Chiropractic therapy – Gentle approaches that avoid stressing the injured level.
- Rehab exercise – Safe mobility and strength strategies.
- Neural mobilisation – Keeps irritated nerves healthy and flexible.
- Lifestyle advice – What movements to avoid, and which ones help recovery.
Medications or Injections
- Anti‑inflammatories may help manage acute pain.
- Epidural steroid injections can sometimes provide short‑term relief, especially for leg pain greater than back pain. These are a mid‑tier option when oral medication alone is not enough.
Surgery (Last Resort)
Surgery is directed at protecting function, not just removing pain.
- When considered: Progressive nerve weakness, severe cauda equina signs, or intractable leg pain.
- Recovery stages post‑surgery: Pain improves first, then tingling, numbness over months, with motor strength taking up to two years.
Prognosis – The Natural History of Discs
The body has a remarkable ability to heal discs:
- Many herniations shrink by 50% within 3–12 months.
- Even ‘massive’ herniations can almost completely resorb within 1–2 years.
- Larger, softer, nucleus‑based herniations often resolve more quickly than small, stiff, fibrous ones.
The most important predictor? Trajectory.
- If pain and weakness improve, continue conservative care.
- If pain worsens or weakness progresses, seek immediate review.
Frequently Asked
Do All Herniated Discs Need Surgery?
No. Most resolve naturally with conservative care like chiropractic, mobilisation, and exercise.
Why Did My MRI Say ‘Large Protrusion’?
Big doesn’t always mean bad. Larger protrusions often contain fluid‑rich nucleus material that shrinks effectively with time.
Will Steroid Injections Cure My Disc Herniation?
No. They may settle inflammation and provide short‑term relief, buying you time to heal and restore mobility.
What Are Modic Changes?
They’re MRI changes in the vertebral bone indicating degenerative processes. Their presence usually means slower healing.
How Long Until I Feel Better?
Pain often reduces within weeks to months. Nerve symptoms (numbness, tingling, weakness) can take longer, but many continue recovering up to a year or more.
Can Chiropractic Care Make It Worse?
When delivered carefully, chiropractic care is safe and effective. We avoid aggressive techniques on acute discs and instead use gentle, targeted methods to support recovery.
Book Your New Patient Consultation
At Marsden Park Chiropractic, disc and nerve pain patients come to us for:
- A comprehensive spinal and neurological assessment
- Clear, simple explanation of your scan results
- An individualised recovery plan that matches your body and goals
- Real strategies to help you move better, sleep better, and get back to work or sport
Ready To Take The Next Step?
Book your New Patient Consultation today at Marsden Park Chiropractic. Let’s put you on the path to relief and recovery.
Contact us on 0426 966 170 or [email protected].
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