Recognize the Signs
Are You Experiencing Any of These Symptoms?
A herniated disc can develop gradually from wear and tear or suddenly from an injury. The pain often radiates far from the disc itself, making it difficult to self-diagnose. If any of these symptoms sound familiar, your spine needs professional evaluation:
A herniated disc won't fix itself. The longer you wait, the more the nerve damage progresses. Early treatment leads to faster, more complete recovery.
Schedule Your EvaluationHow We Treat It
Your Non-Surgical Recovery Plan
We combine advanced spinal decompression technology with hands-on chiropractic care to treat herniated discs at their source — without surgery, without injections.
SpineMED Decompression
Our primary treatment for herniated discs. clinically proven, computer-controlled decompression creates negative pressure to retract the herniation and relieve nerve compression. Non-surgical and pain-free.
Learn More →Chiropractic Adjustments
Restore proper spinal alignment to take pressure off the affected disc and surrounding nerves. Adjustments complement decompression therapy for comprehensive healing.
Learn More →X-Ray Diagnostics
On-site digital X-rays to evaluate spinal alignment, disc spacing, and rule out other conditions. Imaging guides your treatment plan from day one.
Learn More →What to Expect
Your First Visit for Disc Treatment
Consultation & History
We discuss your symptoms, how long you've had them, what makes them better or worse, and any prior imaging or treatments.
Examination & Imaging
A thorough physical and neurological exam including range of motion, reflex testing, and on-site digital X-rays. We identify the exact level and severity of the herniation before treatment begins.
Custom Treatment Plan
Based on your diagnosis, we create a recovery plan centered on SpineMED decompression therapy, supported by chiropractic adjustments and therapeutic exercises. Every detail is explained so you know exactly what to expect.
SpineMED Decompression Begins
Your first decompression session typically happens within the first few visits. Each session lasts about 30 minutes. Most patients feel relief within the first week of treatment.
Recovery & Strengthening
As pain decreases, we introduce rehabilitative exercises to strengthen the muscles supporting your spine. The goal is complete recovery and long-term prevention — not just symptom management.
"I was told I needed surgery for my L4-L5 herniated disc. A coworker suggested I try Wilshire Center Chiropractic first. Dr. Ji put me on the SpineMED decompression program and after 6 weeks, the pain in my leg was almost completely gone. That was 8 months ago and I still feel great. I'm so glad I avoided surgery."
Google Review · Herniated Disc Patient
Common Questions
Herniated Disc Treatment FAQ
Can a herniated disc be treated without surgery?
Yes. The majority of herniated discs — roughly 80-90% — can be successfully treated without surgery. At Wilshire Center Chiropractic, we use SpineMED spinal decompression combined with chiropractic adjustments to reduce disc pressure, relieve nerve compression, and promote natural healing. Surgery is typically only necessary when conservative treatment fails after several months or when there is severe neurological deficit.
Can a herniated disc heal on its own?
Some herniated discs can partially resorb over time, but healing on its own does not mean the underlying problem is resolved. Without treatment, compensatory movement patterns develop that lead to chronic pain, muscle imbalance, and further degeneration. Professional treatment accelerates recovery, restores proper spinal mechanics, and prevents the condition from worsening or recurring.
How does SpineMED decompression work for herniated discs?
SpineMED is an clinically proven, computer-controlled spinal decompression system. It gently stretches the spine to create negative pressure within the affected disc. This negative pressure pulls the herniated disc material back toward the center, reduces pressure on the surrounding nerves, and promotes the flow of nutrients and oxygen into the disc for healing. Sessions last about 30 minutes, and most patients require 20-25 sessions over 6-8 weeks.
How long does herniated disc treatment take?
Treatment duration depends on the severity of the herniation and how long you have been symptomatic. Most patients experience noticeable pain relief within 2-4 weeks of starting SpineMED decompression therapy. A full treatment plan typically spans 6-12 weeks, with many patients achieving significant or complete resolution of symptoms. We monitor progress with periodic evaluations and adjust the plan accordingly.
Can I exercise with a herniated disc?
It depends on the severity and location of the herniation. Light movement and specific therapeutic exercises are generally beneficial and can support recovery. However, high-impact activities, heavy lifting, and certain bending or twisting motions should be avoided. Dr. Sim or Dr. Ji will provide you with a safe exercise program tailored to your condition, so you can stay active without risking further injury.
What is the difference between a bulging disc and a herniated disc?
A bulging disc occurs when the outer wall of the disc weakens and expands outward evenly, like a hamburger patty that's too big for the bun. A herniated disc is more severe — the outer wall tears and the soft inner material pushes through the rupture, often pressing directly on a spinal nerve. Herniated discs typically cause more intense pain, numbness, and weakness than bulging discs. Both conditions respond well to SpineMED decompression therapy.
Stop Living with Disc Pain. Get Real Relief.
Non-surgical SpineMED decompression. Most insurance accepted. Same-day consultations available.
