Types of Spinal Disc Problems

(FEB) Week 2 - Types of Spinal Disc Problems.jpg

Keyword(s): spinal disc problems

Meta description: Discover the different types of spinal disc problems and what you can do to find relief.

Bottom Line:

If you've had a spinal disc problem, you know how painful it can be. Every movement seems to hurt, and it can feel like you'll never be back to your old self.

That pain is the body’s way of signaling you to "Pay Attention Inside Now" -- it's a warning sign from your body. It's your body's way of letting you know it’s been pushed past its limits. However, with the proper care and a little time, you can get your life back.

Why it Matters:

The most common type of spinal disc problem is called a bulge or herniation, and these injuries most commonly occur between 45-65 years of age when discs are naturally more dehydrated and stiffer.

A disc bulge or herniation occurs when a disc's inner portion is trying to (or has) pushed through its tough outer layer. When this happens, it can cause pain in two different ways.

  • If the disc bulges far enough to press on a spinal nerve, you may notice pain that travels down your arms or legs.
  • If the inside of your disc pushes through the outer layer, it could also cause severe inflammation resulting in pain.

Next Steps:

The good news is that your spine is incredibly resilient.

Research has proven that movement-based care, such as spinal adjustments and spinal rehab, are incredibly effective at helping you heal from spinal disc injuries. In fact, exercises that "centralize" your spinal disc may be able to prevent future episodes of sciatica.

If you have spinal pain or pain that travels down your arm or leg, let us know. Our practice focuses on using the latest research-based treatments to help you heal, improve, and regain your quality of life.

Science Source(s):

Bulging Disc vs. Herniated Disc: What's the Difference? Mayo Clinic. 2019. Exercise for Sciatica from a Herniated Disc. Spine-Health. 2019.

Share This Blog

Dietitian in white coat consults patient. Fruit, juice, and scale on table. Blonde hair, indoor setting.
January 27, 2026
Learn how personalized nutrition and lifestyle changes at Canyon Creek Chiropractic can improve posture, recovery, and vitality.
Chiropractor treating a patient's lower back. The patient lies on a table, and the chiropractor uses their hands.
January 21, 2026
Discover how regular chiropractic adjustments support your immune system and well-being throughout cold and flu season.
Woman with neck brace on sofa, looking down at medication, indoors.
January 13, 2026
Get answers to the most common whiplash recovery questions, from pain management to exercises, by our Cottonwood Heights team.
Woman with long dark hair, grimacing, holding her neck at a desk with laptop.
January 7, 2026
Start the year pain-free! Explore innovative chiropractic treatments that relieve chronic whiplash pain—book your consult now.
Physiotherapist examining patient's leg in clinic; another patient and nurse in background.
December 23, 2025
Considering chiropractic care for your family? Learn about its safety, benefits, and holistic approach at Canyon Creek.
Man at desk, hand on neck, showing pain; laptop, desk lamp, phone, notebook.
December 17, 2025
Discover why cold weather intensifies whiplash symptoms and explore effective chiropractic solutions for lasting relief.
Cyclist clutching his neck, likely in pain. He wears a helmet, sunglasses, and a red shirt; outdoors.
December 9, 2025
Suffer whiplash on the slopes? Learn about symptoms, recovery steps, and holistic whiplash treatment at our Cottonwood office.
A healthcare provider adjusting a patient's neck. The patient is a woman in a black tank top.
December 3, 2025
Recover from whiplash pain during the busy holiday season with proven self-care and expert chiropractic solutions.
Chiropractor examining a woman's back in a medical office.
November 25, 2025
Discover how spinal and postural screenings at Canyon Creek Chiropractic can improve your health and prevent future pain.
A woman receiving a medical exam; doctor checks head and neck in a bright room.
November 19, 2025
Find out why early chiropractic treatment for whiplash is essential for a pain-free holiday season and faster recovery.