Herniated Disc Treatment in Plymouth, MA

A herniated or bulging disc can put pressure on nearby nerves, causing pain that spreads well beyond your back. We offer non-surgical relief through chiropractic care and intersegmental traction in Plymouth, MA.

Herniated and Bulging Disc Treatment in Plymouth

Spinal discs act as shock absorbers between your vertebrae. When one bulges or herniates, it can press on nearby nerves, creating pain that often travels well beyond where the disc itself is located. A bulging disc extends beyond its normal boundary but stays intact, while a herniated disc has a tear in its outer layer that allows inner material to push through, typically causing more intense nerve compression. Both conditions tend to respond well to conservative care.

Deep low back or neck pain
Pain that radiates into the leg or arm
Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet
Muscle weakness in the affected limb
Pain that worsens with sitting, bending, coughing, or sneezing

How We Treat Disc Pain in Plymouth

Dr. Jeffrey Vitenas and Dr. Jessie Swink evaluate exactly which disc is involved and how it’s affecting you before building a plan.

Chiropractic Adjustments

Precise adjustments reduce mechanical stress on the affected disc by restoring proper joint motion and reducing nerve irritation. Depending on your exam, care may use Gonstead or Thompson Drop Table technique.

Intersegmental Traction

Intersegmental traction gently mobilizes the spine, which can help relieve pressure on the affected disc and surrounding nerves alongside your adjustments.

Non-Surgical Disc Care in Plymouth

The majority of herniated and bulging disc cases improve with conservative care and never require surgery. Surgery becomes necessary in a small percentage of cases involving severe neurological symptoms, but for most patients dealing with pain, numbness, or sciatica from a disc, conservative care is both appropriate and effective. Your body also has a natural ability to reabsorb disc material over time once the mechanical pressure causing the problem is addressed.

Your First Visit for Disc Pain in Plymouth

Your first visit includes a detailed history and testing to understand exactly which disc is involved and how severe the nerve compression is, with X-rays taken when needed. Most patients begin noticing meaningful improvement within the first few visits, though full recovery for disc conditions typically takes several weeks to months depending on severity.

Frequently Asked Questions About Disc Pain in Plymouth

Can chiropractic actually fix a herniated disc, or does it just manage the pain?

Chiropractic care addresses the mechanical pressure contributing to your disc pain, which can support your body’s own healing process rather than just masking symptoms.

What's the difference between a bulging disc and a herniated disc?

A bulging disc extends beyond its normal boundary but stays intact. A herniated disc has a tear that allows inner material to push through, which often causes more intense nerve compression.

Do I need an MRI before starting treatment?

Not always. Your exam findings help determine whether imaging is needed.

Is it safe to get adjusted if I have a herniated disc?

In most cases, yes. Your doctor will tailor the technique and approach to your specific condition and comfort level.

When is surgery actually necessary for a disc problem?

Surgery is typically reserved for cases involving severe neurological symptoms, like significant progressive weakness or loss of bladder or bowel control. Most disc conditions respond well to conservative care first.