SPINAL DISC INJURY TREATMENT IN GREENVILLE, SC
Reviewed by Dr. Michael Nelson, DC, MHRD, ATC, chiropractor and certified athletic trainer · Last updated November 2026
A spinal disc injury is damage to one of the cushions between the vertebrae, such as a bulge or herniation, where the softer inner material pushes outward and can irritate nearby nerves. Disc injuries are most common in the low back and neck. At Carolina Active Health Chiropractic in downtown Greenville, SC, we evaluate disc injuries carefully and build a plan to calm symptoms and restore movement and strength.
Go to the ER right away if you have:
- new trouble controlling your bladder or bowels, or numbness in the groin or inner thighs,
- leg or arm weakness that's getting worse,
- new clumsiness in your hands or trouble with balance and walking, or
- back or neck pain with fever, a history of cancer, or after a major fall or crash.
Common disc injury symptoms
- Low back or neck pain, sometimes sharp with certain movements
- Pain that travels into the leg (sciatica) or into the arm
- Tingling, numbness or weakness in the leg, foot, arm or hand
- Pain that's worse with sitting, bending, coughing or sneezing
- Stiffness and difficulty finding a comfortable position
What causes disc injuries?
Disc injuries often develop from repeated bending and lifting, especially with twisting, long periods of sitting, or a single heavy lift. Age-related changes, genetics and smoking also make discs more vulnerable. It's worth knowing that many people have disc bulges on an MRI without any pain, so imaging findings don't always explain symptoms. Your exam matters as much as the picture.
How we treat disc injuries
Your first visit includes a thorough history and exam, including nerve testing of strength, sensation and reflexes. We take X-rays in our office when they're clinically indicated and coordinate MRI or a spine-specialist referral when needed. Depending on what we find, your plan may include:
- movement-based exercises that reduce symptoms, including McKenzie-style approaches,
- traction on our traction table when appropriate,
- gentle chiropractic care adapted to your injury,
- laser therapy for pain and inflammation,
- a progressive rehab program to rebuild core and hip strength, and
- coaching on sitting, lifting and returning to training safely.
Disc injury FAQs
Can a herniated disc heal on its own?
Many disc herniations improve over time with conservative care, and the body can reabsorb some of the herniated material. A guided plan helps you stay active and calm symptoms while that happens.
Is a bulging disc the same as a herniated disc?
Not quite. A bulge is a broader outward spread of the disc, while a herniation is when the inner material pushes through a weak spot in the outer layer. Both can be painless or can irritate a nerve.
Will I need surgery for a disc injury?
Most people with disc injuries don't need surgery. Surgery is usually considered for severe or worsening nerve problems or symptoms that don't improve with conservative care. We coordinate with spine specialists when that's the right next step.
Is chiropractic care safe with a disc injury?
We tailor care to your injury, starting with a thorough exam. Treatment may include gentle techniques, traction and movement-based exercises rather than forceful adjustments, and we refer when your exam calls for it.
What should I avoid with a disc injury?
Early on, it often helps to limit long periods of sitting and heavy or repeated bending and lifting, while keeping gently active. We'll tell you which movements to avoid for now and which to start.
Related reading
General information only, not a diagnosis. If you have emergency warning signs, call 911. Individual results vary. Carolina Active Health Chiropractic · 800 E Washington St, Ste B, Greenville, SC.
Dr. Nelson and his team are phenomenal. With his background in sports medicine, Dr. Nelson blends together chiropractic care with physical therapy and other treatments for a wholistic treatment plan that really delivers. I went in last summer with extreme pain when standing/walking due to a herniated disk, and I was virtually pain free within a few months due in large part to this team (I did receive a couple outside treatments, but this was a huge part of my recovery). I have had bad experiences with Chiropractors in the past, but I would recommend Carolina Active Health Chiropractic without hesitation.
