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Herniated Discs

Your local chiropractor treats herniated discs, serving Sydney's Lower North Shore.

Living with a herniated disc can be a challenging experience, as the pain and discomfort can significantly impact your daily life. While traditional medical approaches often involve pain medication or surgery, many people are turning to chiropractic care as a non-invasive and holistic alternative.

Reviewed by James Zheng, Chiropractor (B.ChiroSc, M.Chiro) · Last reviewed July 2026

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Chatswood chiropractic care for herniated discs and sciatica

Understanding herniated discs

A herniated disc occurs when the soft, gel-like centre of a spinal disc pushes through a tear in the tough outer layer. This can compress nearby nerves, resulting in pain, numbness and weakness in the affected area. Herniated discs most commonly occur in the lower back or neck, and can be caused by age-related wear and tear, improper lifting or traumatic injury.

The chiropractic approach to herniated discs

We take a careful, step-by-step approach to relieving pressure on the affected disc and supporting your recovery:

  • Comprehensive assessment — a thorough examination that may include your medical history, physical examination and, where appropriate, imaging such as X-rays or MRI scans.
  • Spinal adjustments — carefully applied, controlled force to realign the spine, relieve pressure on the affected disc and reduce irritation.
  • Flexion-distraction technique — a gentle, non-thrusting motion that helps decompress the spine and create space for the disc to settle back into position.
  • Therapeutic exercises — specific exercises to strengthen the muscles that support the spine.
  • Lifestyle and ergonomic advice — guidance on proper lifting technique and posture improvement.

The benefits of chiropractic care

Chiropractic care offers a non-invasive alternative to surgery. Many patients experience significant pain reduction through adjustments, and care is aimed at improving spinal function, mobility and your overall quality of life.

Herniated Discs — your questions answered.

The Body Therapy Chiropractic team at the Chatswood clinic
Can a herniated disc heal without surgery?

Many herniated discs improve with conservative, non-surgical care. By relieving pressure on the affected disc and nerve and strengthening the supporting muscles, chiropractic care supports the body's natural healing — though we'll always refer on if surgical assessment is warranted.

Is chiropractic care safe for a herniated disc?

When appropriate, yes. We assess carefully first and use gentle techniques such as flexion-distraction that are well suited to disc problems. If your presentation calls for further investigation, we'll arrange it.

Will the pain come back?

Our goal is lasting relief, not just a temporary fix. Alongside treatment we give you exercises and ergonomic advice to strengthen and protect your spine, which reduces the likelihood of recurrence.

Do I need a referral to see a chiropractor?

No referral is needed. You can book directly with us as a new patient. If you have a care plan or referral from your GP, bring it along and we'll work in with it.

What happens during my first visit?

Your initial consultation includes a thorough history, a physical assessment and, where appropriate, your first treatment. We'll explain what we find and agree on a plan together before any care begins.

Do you offer health fund rebates and HICAPS?

Yes. We accept all major health funds and have HICAPS on site, so eligible patients can claim their rebate on the spot and only pay the gap.

Read more about herniated discs

Other conditions we treat

Are you unsure what's causing your pain?

+61 493 128 000

Level 2, Suite 204, 6 Help Street, Chatswood NSW 2067

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