A disc injury can turn ordinary movements, like bending, sitting, coughing, or getting out of bed, into something you plan around. At Golden Bear, care starts with working out whether your pain is coming from a disc, a joint, or a muscle, then building a plan around what the exam shows.

What a disc problem can feel like

Low back or neck pain that is worse with bending, lifting, or long periods of sitting
Pain, tingling, or numbness that travels into a buttock, leg, shoulder, arm, or hand
Pain that flares when you cough, sneeze, or strain
Stiffness and guarding that make it hard to find a comfortable position

When chiropractic care may be a good fit

Many disc-related back and neck problems are treated conservatively first, with hands-on care, exercise, and changes to how you move and load your body. Not every disc problem is a good fit for chiropractic care, and part of the exam is working out which kind you have. You do not need imaging to start, and Dr. Corey will let you know if your exam calls for it.

When to get medical care instead: call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room for new loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness in the groin or inner thighs, or rapidly worsening weakness in a leg or foot. Get prompt medical care for back or neck pain after a significant fall or accident, pain with a fever, unexplained weight loss, or severe pain that does not ease with rest or wakes you at night.

How Dr. Corey evaluates disc injuries

Your 75–90 minute first visit includes a detailed history and a full neurological and orthopedic exam, including:

How and when the pain started, and what makes it better or worse
Posture, movement, and range of motion in the spine
Strength, reflexes, and sensation in the legs or arms
Tests that help tell a disc-related problem from a joint or muscle problem
Screening questions and tests to make sure hands-on treatment is appropriate for you

Bring any prior imaging or reports, such as an MRI, an X-ray, or notes from other providers. If anything in your exam calls for a physician's evaluation or imaging, you will be referred before treatment starts.

What treatment may include

Low-force adjusting techniques and other gentle options
Muscle work for the back, hips, and surrounding muscles, such as trigger point therapy and myofascial release
Mobility and strengthening exercises matched to what your exam shows
Guidance on lifting, sitting, sleeping, and returning to activity

Your care is built around your comfort. You can decline any technique or stop at any point.

See our adjusting styles →

Learn about soft-tissue and muscle work →

What your first appointment looks like

Book online, complete your intake forms ahead of time, and plan for 75–90 minutes. The intake visit includes your history, exam, and a treatment plan, plus treatment that day if it is appropriate. Pricing is flat and published before you book. Golden Bear is out-of-network with insurance, and a superbill is available on request.

See current pricing →

Frequently asked questions

Can a chiropractor help with a herniated disc?

Some people with disc-related pain improve with conservative care, and many disc problems settle over time. Your exam determines whether chiropractic care is appropriate for your situation, and Dr. Corey will refer you to a physician if it is not.

Do I need an MRI before I come in?

No. You do not need imaging to book a first visit. If you already have imaging, bring it. If your exam suggests you need it, you will be referred.

Is it safe to have my back or neck adjusted with a disc problem?

Screening comes first, and low-force approaches are available. Your exam determines whether hands-on treatment is appropriate, and you can always choose a gentler option.