A disc injury can cause back or neck pain, and pain, numbness, or weakness in an arm or leg. Many people improve with conservative care. We help you find out whether you are one of them.
Understanding Disc Injuries
Between each vertebra sits a disc with a tough outer ring and a softer, gel-like center. When the outer ring weakens or tears, the center can bulge or push through and press on a nearby nerve.
A bulging disc extends past its normal border but stays intact. A herniated disc (sometimes called a "slipped" or "ruptured" disc) has pushed through a tear in the outer ring. Either one can irritate a nerve root and cause pain that travels into the leg (sciatica) or the arm.
Research shows that many disc herniations shrink or stop causing symptoms over time. Conservative care focuses on reducing pressure on the disc and nerve, calming inflammation, and helping you stay active while the disc heals.
Deep pain in the low back or neck that worsens with bending, sitting, or coughing
Pain that travels into the leg (lumbar disc) or arm (cervical disc)
Tingling or numbness in a specific part of the arm, hand, leg, or foot
Reduced grip strength or difficulty lifting the foot
What We Look For
Our Approach
Our disc program is built around non-surgical spinal decompression, supported by other therapies based on your exam:
Neurological testing and X-rays when needed. If you already have an MRI, bring it and we will review it with you
IDD Therapy on the Accu-SPINA system applies targeted, computer-controlled traction to the injured level
Softwave TRT and gentle adjustments where appropriate to reduce muscle guarding and improve motion
Not every disc problem is right for conservative care. If your exam shows signs that need a surgical opinion, Dr. Etemadi will tell you directly and help coordinate a referral.
Your Safety Comes First
Most cases are not an emergency, but some symptoms need prompt medical attention. Contact your doctor right away, or call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room if symptoms are sudden or severe, if you have:
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Your First Visit
Start with our $99 Relief & Recovery Special: a full consultation, exam, X-rays at the doctor's discretion, and one Softwave TRT or Spinal Decompression session. We serve patients from The Woodlands, Spring, Shenandoah, Conroe, and Tomball.