Herniated Disc Treatment

A herniated disc can stop you in your tracks. Whether you woke up one morning barely able to move or the pain has been building slowly over weeks, you're probably wondering if surgery is your only option. In most cases, it isn't. Over my 20+ years treating patients in Tucson, I've helped many people with herniated and bulging discs get back to their daily lives using gentle, hands-on chiropractic care.

Understanding Herniated Discs

Your spinal discs sit between each vertebra and act as cushions, absorbing shock and allowing your spine to flex and move. Each disc has a tough outer layer and a softer gel-like center. A herniated disc happens when that inner material pushes through a crack in the outer layer. Sometimes called a "slipped disc" or "ruptured disc," this can irritate nearby nerves and cause significant pain.

Herniated discs most commonly occur in the lower back (lumbar spine), but they can also happen in the neck (cervical spine). You might feel a sharp or burning pain in your back that radiates into your arm or leg, depending on the location. Numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness are also common. Some people have a herniated disc and don't even know it — the symptoms can vary quite a bit from person to person.

Dr. Carrion's Approach to Disc Treatment

When you come in with disc pain, the first thing I do is a comprehensive exam to determine the exact location and severity of the herniation. This matters because treatment needs to be specific — a one-size-fits-all approach doesn't work with disc problems.

I rely on Thompson drop table adjustments, which use a specially designed table with sections that gently drop during the adjustment. This allows me to make precise corrections to spinal alignment with minimal force — which is exactly what you want when dealing with a sensitive disc. The Activator method is another tool I use frequently. It's a handheld instrument that delivers a quick, low-force impulse to specific areas, reducing pressure on the affected disc without any twisting or manual manipulation.

As the disc pressure decreases, the surrounding inflammation starts to resolve, and the nerve irritation settles down. I'll also give you guidance on posture, movement, and exercises that protect your discs during recovery. Most of my herniated disc patients see meaningful improvement within a few weeks of beginning treatment.

If you're dealing with disc pain, come see us at either Tucson location — Speedway or Oro Valley. Walk-ins are welcome, or call (520) 319-1234.