Herniated Disc Treatment in Pompano Beach
Dr. Michael Cohen has helped patients across all stages of herniated disc conditions in Pompano Beach, from early symptoms to long-standing nerve irritation. At Graceful Pompano Beach Chiropractic, care is structured, cautious, and focused on reducing stress to the disc and surrounding nerves while supporting stability and function. Every treatment plan is based on clinical findings, not assumptions, and adjusted to your comfort level.
When it is appropriate, Dr. Cohen explains that care is designed to “increase the space” around the irritated nerve, helping reduce pressure and improve function over time.
What Is a Herniated Disc?
Herniated discs most commonly affect the lower back or neck but can occur anywhere along the spine.
Understanding Herniated Disc vs. Bulging Disc
A bulging disc occurs when the disc extends outward evenly without tearing.
A herniated disc involves a tear or rupture in the disc’s outer layer, allowing inner material to push out.
Herniated discs are more likely to cause nerve irritation and noticeable symptoms.
Common Causes of a Herniated Disc
Common causes include:
- Repetitive lifting or bending. Repeating the same strain patterns can slowly stress the disc and surrounding joints.
- Poor posture over long periods. Prolonged slouched posture can change how force is distributed through the spine.
- Prolonged sitting. Long sitting can increase disc stress, especially when combined with limited movement.
- Sudden twisting movements. A fast twist can aggravate a disc that is already irritated or weakened.
- Spinal misalignment. When joints are not moving well, certain areas can take on extra load.
- Age related disc changes. Discs can lose resilience over time, making them more vulnerable to irritation.
- Previous back or neck injuries. Prior trauma can leave a region more sensitive to future strain.
Signs of Nerve Compression
When a disc presses on a nerve, symptoms may include patterns like pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness. Dr. Cohen often describes herniated disc symptoms as including “numbness, tingling, burning, sharp pains,” along with weakness and reduced range of motion.
Symptoms may include:
- Sharp or burning pain. This can reflect irritation along the nerve pathway.
- Pain traveling into the arm or leg. Radiating pain often follows the path of the affected nerve.
- Numbness or tingling. These sensations can occur when a nerve is irritated or compressed.
- Muscle weakness. Weakness may show up in muscles controlled by the affected nerve root.
- Changes in reflexes. Reflex changes can be a clue that the nerve is not signaling normally.
- Pain that worsens with sitting or movement. Certain positions can increase pressure and flare symptoms.
These signs indicate the need for professional evaluation.
Benefits of Chiropractic Herniated Disc Treatment
Chiropractic care focuses on improving spinal mechanics and reducing stress on the affected disc. In Dr. Cohen’s words, the goal is to improve joint positioning so “the space of that nerve” can increase, which can reduce irritation and support comfort and function.
Potential benefits include:
- Reduced pressure on spinal nerves. Improving mechanics may help decrease nerve irritation.
- Improved spinal movement. Restoring healthier motion can make daily movement feel more manageable.
- Decreased muscle guarding. As the body feels safer, protective tension can gradually ease.
- Better posture and spinal support. Education and positioning support can reduce repeat strain.
- Improved function during daily activities. The goal is to help you move with more confidence and less limitation.
Care is always tailored to the location and severity of the disc injury.
How a Herniated Disc Is Diagnosed
Diagnosis begins with a detailed evaluation at Graceful Pompano Beach Chiropractic. This may include:
- Review of symptoms and health history.
- Postural assessment.
- Range of motion testing.
- Neurological screening.
- Orthopedic testing.
- Digital X rays when appropriate.
If a major herniation is suspected, Dr. Cohen may recommend an MRI to better visualize the disc, along with neurological testing, 3D imaging, and nerve root strength testing to compare muscle function side to side.
Dr. Cohen explains findings clearly so patients understand what is causing their symptoms.
Our Approach to Herniated Disc Treatment
Treatment is personalized and based on how the disc and surrounding tissues are functioning. Your care plan may include:
- Gentle chiropractic adjustments. Dr. Cohen describes care as specific adjustments aimed at improving joint positioning and reducing nerve irritation.
- Techniques to reduce spinal stress. The focus is to support the body without adding unnecessary strain.
- Movement and activity guidance. Small changes in daily movement can reduce flare-ups while you heal.
- Posture education. Posture support helps reduce repeated pressure patterns on the disc.
- Supportive exercises when appropriate. When indicated, simple home guidance can help support stability.
The goal is to support healing while protecting the disc and surrounding nerves. If you have been considering decompression, Dr. Cohen notes it can help only in specific situations and only when key factors like alignment are addressed first.
Herniated Disc Patient Case Study
Symptoms: The patient’s condition was severe enough that they were wheeled into the office, with significant limitations in walking and daily activity.
Root cause analysis: A complete extrusion of the L5 disc was identified in the history shared, and the patient wanted to explore conservative options first.
Treatment plan: A structured plan using chiropractic care, with care focused on addressing the problem conservatively before pursuing surgery.
Outcome, results:Within four weeks, the patient went from being wheeled into the clinic to fully walking again, returning to work, and playing with their children.
Herniated Disc Patient Testimonials & Reviews
Herniated Disc Treatment Specialists in Pompano Beach
Your care is supported by a team that shares a gentle, patient-education approach. Dr. Susan Lee describes chiropractic as finding the “root cause issue” and improving how the brain and body communicate through the nervous system. Dr. Julia Sopira similarly explains that chiropractic care focuses on removing interference so the body can heal naturally and function more efficiently.
Book An Appointment
Please use the booking tool below to book an appointment or by calling us on (561) 264-7010
Can a herniated disc heal without surgery?
Many herniated discs improve with conservative care focused on spinal mechanics and movement support. Dr. Cohen evaluates the severity and may recommend advanced imaging when a major herniation is suspected.
How long does herniated disc treatment take?
Treatment length depends on disc severity, symptom duration, and individual healing response. Dr. Cohen notes that results can vary, with some people improving quickly and others needing more time based on case severity.
What activities should I avoid with a herniated disc?
Activities involving heavy lifting, twisting, or prolonged sitting may need modification during care. Dr. Cohen’s exams also consider how symptoms behave, including whether pain stays localized or travels, which helps guide safer movement choices.
When Should You Seek Treatment for a Herniated Disc?
Evaluation is recommended if pain travels into the arms or legs, numbness develops, or symptoms persist. Dr. Cohen also watches for weakness and reduced motion, since these can signal nerve involvement that should not be ignored.
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