After more than three decades as a chiropractor, one of the most common and frustrating issues I see in clinic is lower back pain. And quite often, the underlying cause is a bulging or herniated disc—something many people don’t even realise they’re dealing with.
Your spine is made up of vertebrae cushioned by discs that act like shock absorbers. When one of those discs bulges or herniates, it can irritate nearby nerves and cause a wide range of symptoms—from persistent back pain to radiating nerve discomfort that affects everyday life.
If you’re wondering whether a disc issue could be the reason behind your lower back pain, here are some telltale signs to keep an eye on:
1. Ongoing Lower Back Pain
This is often the first indicator. Whether it’s a dull ache or a sharp, stabbing pain, discomfort that worsens with sitting, bending, or lifting is a strong sign the disc might be involved. Left untreated, it can become chronic and really take a toll on your energy and mobility.
2. Sciatica (Pain That Radiates Down the Leg)
When a disc presses on the sciatic nerve, it can cause pain that travels from your lower back, through your buttock, and down the leg—sometimes all the way to the foot. This pain may feel sharp, electric, burning, or stabbing, and typically affects one side of the body.
3. Tingling or Numbness
That “pins and needles” sensation, especially in the legs or feet, is often your nervous system signaling that a nerve is under pressure. This symptom can come and go—or become more constant if the issue worsens.
4. Muscle Weakness
When a nerve is compressed for too long, the muscles it controls can start to weaken. You might notice that lifting your foot, climbing stairs, or maintaining balance feels more difficult on one side.
5. Reduced Sensation
A bulging disc can also cause numb patches or dulled sensation in specific areas of the leg or foot, depending on which spinal nerve is affected.
What Can Be Done—Naturally and Effectively
The lumbar spine absorbs a lot of stress daily, and disc problems are more common than many people think. The good news? Surgery isn’t your only option.
At Miracle Life Chiropractic, we take a natural, non-invasive approach to care. With over 30 years of hands-on experience, I’ve helped many patients find relief from disc-related pain through:
- Gentle spinal adjustments to reduce pressure on nerves
- Soft tissue techniques to ease surrounding muscle tension
- Targeted corrective exercises to stabilise and support the spine
If you’re living with these symptoms, don’t ignore them or simply push through. Early, focused care can make a world of difference—and help you avoid more invasive treatments down the track.
Book a visit with us today at Miracle Life Chiropractic. Let’s get your spine supported and your life back on track.