“Slipped disc” is a common, non-medical term for a herniated disc (or prolapsed disc), where the soft inner jelly part of a spinal disc pushes into or through the elastic outer ring of the disc, irritating nerves and causing pain, numbness, or weakness. While technically discs don’t “slip,” the term often describes this bulge or protrusion, making them essentially the same condition in everyday language.

For a disc to “slip,” it generally can only do so if the vertebrae “slips” out of alignment, taking the disc with it. Similar to having to 2 books stacked inline, on top of each other with a small balloon sitting in the centre between the books. If one book ‘slides’ out of its position (alignment) it will create a stretching or shearing action forcing the disc (balloon) to ‘slip’ with it.

Generally, Chiropractic care is highly effective in treating and managing a slipped disc situation and Cannington Chiro has had over 25 years’ experience in the treatment of a slipped disc.

Protruding/Slipped Disc (The Same Thing)

  • What it is: A spinal disc (is like a jelly donut) and if it tears or bulges, its gel-like centre can press on the nerves. If the ‘gel’ leaks out it is considered either a ruptured or herniated disc.
  • Common Terms: Herniated Disc, Slipped Disc, Ruptured Disc, Prolapsed Disc, Bulging Disc (sometimes used for less severe cases).
  • Symptoms: Pain (back, neck, arm, leg), tingling, numbness, muscle weakness, often worse with movement, can affect bowel/bladder in rare, sever cases.
  • Cause: Disc degeneration, injury, aging.

Key Takeaway

Don’t get caught up in the terminology as a ‘slipped disc’ and ‘herniated disc’ usually refer to the same problem, a damaged disc pressing on a nerve.

Correct management is essential for a positive outcome and a period of ‘maintenance’ treatment sessions is often essential and required for long term stabilization, as without ‘follow-up’ the region affected by the slipped disc becomes the ‘weak point in the chain’ and as we know the chain (spine) can only be as strong as its weakest ‘link’.

Common Symptoms of a Slipped Disc

Depending on the affected area of the spine, symptoms may include:

Lumbar (LowerBack) Disc Herniation

  • Sharp or burning back pain
  • Pain radiating into the buttock, hip or leg
  • Tingling or numbness in the foot
  • Increased pain when sitting, bending or twisting
  • Reduced mobility or stiffness Cervical (Neck) Disc Herniation
  • Neck pain or shoulder discomfort
  • Numbness or tingling down the arm
  • Weak grip strength
  • Headaches originating from the neck
  • Pain when turning or tilting the head

If pressure on the nerve is left untreated, symptoms can progress and take longer to resolve. Early assessment is essential, as over time loss of feeling and muscle strength may occur, which may require treatment by way of nerve root injections or surgery.

What Causes a Slipped Disc

An injured disc can occur from:

  • Poor posture or prolonged sitting
  • Heavy lifting with incorrect technique
  • Repetitive strain
  • Sudden movements or twisting injuries
  • Degeneration from ageing
  • Sports injuries
  • Weak core or spinal instability

At Cannington Chiropractic, we have the experience you need for a positive outcome.

How Our Chiropractors Assess Slipped Disc Conditions

Your consultation begins with:

  • Detailed medical history
  • Posture and spinal alignment assessment
  • Orthopaedic and neurological tests
  • Range of motion analysis
  • Strength and reflex testing
  • Review of existing X-rays, MRI scans or referral for imaging if required.

Chiropractic Treatment for Slipped Disc Pain

Our approach focuses on reducing disc pressure, restoring mobility, and ensuring the supporting muscles and joints function correctly. Treatment may include:

⊕ Gentle Chiropractic Adjustments
Carefully applied adjustments help restore proper alignment, restoring spinal joint movement and flexibility to ease pressure on the disc and irritation to the nerves exiting from the spaces between the spinal vertebrae.
⊕ Flexion-Distraction Therapy
A specialised, non-invasive technique that gently stretches the spine to reduce disc compression – ideal for herniated and bulging discs.
⊕ Soft Tissue Therapy
Helps reduce muscle tension, inflammation, and protective spasms that aggravate nerve irritation.
⊕ Postural Correction and Ergonomic Advice
We identify harmful daily habits that contribute to disc pressure – and how to fix them.
⊕ Strengthening and Mobility Exercises
Targeted exercises help stabilize your spine and prevent recurring disc problems.
⊕ Lifestyle and Activity Planning
We guide you on safe movements, lifting techniques, and modifications while healing occurs.

Most patients feel noticeable improvement within weeks, and many avoid invasive treatments such as injections or surgery.

Do Slipped Discs Heal?

In many cases yes. With proper care, the body can reabsorb disc material and resolve nerve irritation naturally. Chiropractors play a key role in supporting this recovery by:
• Improving spinal mechanics
• Reducing inflammation
• Enhancing mobility
• Preventing further disc damage

Seeking help early maximises your chance of a full recovery.

When to See a Chiropractor Immediately

Seek urgent assessment if you experience:

  • Severe back or leg pain affecting mobility
  • Numbness or tingling in the arms or legs
  • Symptoms that worsen when sitting
  • Weakness in the limbs
  • Pain following lifting, or bending
  • Persistent pain lasting more than a few days

Slipped Disc Treatment in Cannington

Book Your Slipped Disc Assessment Today

We’re here to help you get back to pain-free movement. Book online or call our clinic.

Perths experienced Chiropractors for Bentley, Cannington, East Cannington, Beckenham, Maddington, Kenwick, Gosnells, Queens Park and Surrounds.
Frequently Asked Questions Q: Who Goes To a Chiropractor?

The answer is everyone from all walks of life. The common feature of chiropractic patients is that they wish to be proactive about their health and are sick of hearing
“it’s your age” or “learn to live with it”. The chiropractic patient participates in their return to health by exercising, concentrating on posture and correct spinal ergonomics.
They don’t tend to believe a tablet is going to realign a joint and do all the work.