Spine, Back & Neck
Herniated Disc
A change in the shape of a spinal disc that may or may not be causing symptoms.
Also called: Bulging disc, Slipped disc, Disc protrusion.
Disc bulges and herniations describe the shape of a disc on imaging. They are frequently found in people who have no pain, so findings are interpreted alongside the examination rather than on their own.
The size or appearance of a herniation on a scan does not reliably predict how much pain or limitation a person will have, which is why symptoms and exam findings carry significant weight.
Why this matters
When a herniation does relate to symptoms, it usually shows itself through a pattern — a particular position, a particular direction of movement, or symptoms into a limb.
Understanding that pattern helps set realistic expectations for what daily activities may need temporary adjustment and what can likely continue.
The brain & nervous-system connection
Where the nervous system fits in
Where nerve tissue is involved, testing strength, reflexes and sensation gives a clearer picture than the imaging report by itself.
The exam tracks whether nerve function is stable, improving or changing over time, which matters more than the static image on a single scan.
What we look at
We look for patterns, not a single test
- Detailed health history and consultation
- NeuroInfiniti Stress Response Evaluation
- Posture and movement
- Balance and coordination testing
- Eye movement or neurological screening when appropriate
- Grip or motor-function testing when appropriate
- Palpation and spinal function
- Other examination procedures based on the individual
Not every person receives every test. What we perform depends on your history, your age and what the examination shows as we go.
Scope of care
What this does — and doesn't — mean
What we do
- • We evaluate chiropractic and musculoskeletal function.
- • We look at nervous-system-related functional findings that fall within our scope.
- • We assess movement, balance and coordination findings.
- • We measure stress-response patterns with the NeuroInfiniti evaluation.
- • We make individualized chiropractic care recommendations and re-measure over time.
What we don't claim
- • We do not diagnose, treat or cure diseases.
- • Chiropractic care is not a treatment for dementia, Alzheimer's disease or other neurological diseases.
- • Chiropractic care is not a replacement for medical care, testing or medication.
- • No outcome is promised. Results vary from person to person.
This is a concern where medical evaluation, imaging or co-management may be the right first step. Dr. Mike Geran will say so plainly if that is what the history and examination suggest.
Common questions
- Will I be adjusted on the first visit?
- Generally no. The first visit is an evaluation visit. Dr. Geran reviews the findings and makes recommendations at the follow-up visit.
- Do I need imaging before I come in?
- Not usually. If your history or examination suggests imaging is needed, we will say so and help arrange the right next step.
When medical evaluation may be needed
Findings suggesting significant nerve compression, or any of the red flags above, warrant prompt medical evaluation.
- Progressive weakness in a limb
- Loss of bowel or bladder control
- Numbness in the saddle region
Related at Foothills Chiropractic
- Low Back Pain & Sciatica — Low back pain is common, but the place that hurts is not always where the problem is being driven from.
- Back Pain — One of the most common reasons people look for a chiropractor — and rarely as simple as one sore muscle.
- Cervical Disc Herniation — Disc change in the neck, sometimes with arm symptoms.
- Cervical Spondylosis — Age-related change in the neck joints and discs, often seen on imaging.
Think Foothills Chiropractic might be right for you?
Start Here walks you through what the process looks like, so you can decide whether taking the next step makes sense for you.