Disc Lesions Without Neural Compression
Understanding Discogenic Low Back Pain:
Why Discs Matter
Lower back pain is one of the leading causes of disability in Australia and globally, and intervertebral discs are the single most common structural source.
Unfortunately, disc pain is often misunderstood as either “just wear and tear” or confused with other spinal conditions.
This page explains:
- What discs actually do.
- How they become painful.
- How we distinguish disc pain from other causes.
- What you can expect in terms of healing and care.
Other
Back Pain
Neck Pain
Headaches & Migraines
Sciatica
Sports Injuries
Posture Problems
Slipped Disc
Workplace Injuries
Neck Pain
- Whiplash
- Non-specific Neck Pain
- Torticollis
The Ingenious
- Nucleus pulposus – A protein–sugar–water gel that retains water and disperses force.
- Annulus fibrosus – 15–25 collagen layers forming the disc wall, with the outer third richly innervated.
- Endplates – The gateway for nutrients, keeping the disc alive and functional.
How Discs
- Fissures form – Micro-cracks develop within the annular wall.
- Leakage begins – Nuclear proteins seep through, sparking an immune reaction.
- Inflammation erupts – Pain fibres are activated, leading to severe back pain +/- referred pain.
- Granulation repairs – But not perfectly. New nerve fibres grow deeper, leaving the disc more sensitive.
- Endplate failure – Inflammatory changes (called Modic changes) develop in the adjacent bone, worsening pain and prognosis. Importantly: Discs can cause significant pain without pinching nerves. Back pain is often chemical and inflammatory, not purely mechanical.
Spotting Discogenic Pain
History clues
- Deep, central lower back ache.
- Worse: sitting, bending, lifting.
- Better: walking, standing upright.
- Sudden “pop and lock” = concentric fissure.
- Gradual tightening over hours = radial fissure.
Physical patterns
- Difficulty rising from a chair.
- Antalgic posture (bending away from pain).
- Pain with coughing, sneezing, and straining.
- Slump/SLR reproduces back pain (not leg pain) = thecal tension sign.
Imaging
- MRI: Best tool for hydration, inflammation, annular defects, Modic changes.
- CT: Shows structure but lacks information about activity or inflammation.
- High Intensity Zone (HIZ) on MRI: Highly suggestive if the patient's symptoms align.
Prognosis
The majority of disc-related back pain, especially when nerve compression is absent, has a favourable outlook.
- Contained fissures typically heal within three months.
- Good hydration and no Modic changes = excellent recovery potential.
- Active recovery usually outperforms rest.
Management Process at Marsden Park Chiropractic
Your Action Plan
Stay mobile – Avoid long sitting, keep walking, and move often.
Get assessed early – The right diagnosis avoids months of unnecessary pain.
Don’t fear your back – Discs aren’t fragile; they repair when supported.
Use hands-on care – Spinal adjustments and manual therapy can:
- Reduce local pain responses.
- Improve disc hydration and nutrient exchange.
- Prevent scar build-up post-inflammation.
- Restore muscle activation and spinal control.
Your Next Step:
At Marsden Park Chiropractic, we combine:
A thorough consultation and physical examination.
On-site imaging referrals when required.
Clear diagnosis in plain English.
Evidence-based recommendations for care, lifestyle, and movement.
How to Book
At Marsden Park Chiropractic, we combine:
- Call our clinic directly on 0426 966 170.
- Book via [email protected]
- Or visit us in person at Marsden Park Chiropractic, 3, Rivertine St, Melonba, NSW 2765.
Frequently Asked
Do Disc Injuries Always Need Surgery?
No. The vast majority of discogenic injuries settle without surgery. Conservative care, correct movement, and manual treatment are first-line approaches.
How Long Does A Disc Take To Heal?
Typically around 12 weeks for significant improvement, though pain often improves much sooner with the right care plan.
Why Does Sitting Make My Back Worse?
Prolonged sitting reverses natural spinal loading, starving discs of nutrients and stressing their weakest fibres. Walking restores nutrition and helps discs stay healthier.
Can Manipulation Really Help A Disc?
Yes. Research shows manual therapy can improve disc hydration, ease pain, and restore segmental movement, especially when delivered as part of a broader management strategy.
Is It Safe To Exercise With A Disc Problem?
Yes, with guidance. Gentle walking and controlled extension-based movements are usually helpful. Avoid prolonged flexed postures early on.
We are Here to Help You
Disc pain is not the end of your spine’s story. With correct diagnosis, confident communication, and gentle movement-based recovery, discs heal and function well again.
Take the first step. Book your New Patient Examination at Marsden Park Chiropractic today and start your path back to pain-free movement.
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