“Is it safe to see a chiropractor with a herniated disc?”

Chiropractors can treat herniated discs in several ways: direct manipulation of the affected spine area, decompression, laser treatment, contrast, e-stim and ultrasound therapies. Each of these types of treatment achieve different results, so the treatment that works for you may be just one or a combination of these. The intent of all treatment is to increase the joint space and 'persuade' the disc material to return to it's normal position, between your vertebra, not pushing against your spinal cord. If the disc is truly herniated, you may or may not find relief through chiropractic. Most patients get relief in the short to long term (within 6 months and lasting 10-20 years.) Please understand that a herniated disc is one where the disc material is no longer 'encased' in it's container (called the annular fibers). A lot of 'herniations' are actually 'bulging' discs and have a much better chance of treatment bringing relief. Best of health, Dr Armour, https://armourchiro.com

yes

Absolutely. While there are some adjustments that shouldn’t be done, there are ways to treat as well as “gap” the vertebral joints which can help to alleviate pain and radicular symptoms.

Yes! This is one of the most common problems that chiropractors treat. There are many evidence-based treatments that chiropractors can perform for disc herniations including Flexion-Distraction, McKenzie, and several others. Some approaches work better for different people. You and your chiropractor can try several methods to see what works best for you.

It depends on the Chiropractor and the extent of the injury. Obviously, spinal manipulation is contraindicated, yet there are many techniques to relieve the disc pressure. Look for a gentle approach, no manual manipulation. Many chiropractors utilized special tables, that reduce disc pressure safely.

Absolutely. The physician may not want to do many rotary type manipulations to the level of herniation, but a combination of flexion-distraction technique and disc decompression treatment and various therapies should be extremely beneficial. If the therapy is not effective, surgery may be needed.

Yes it is safe. Chiropractors treat many patients with herniated discs.

Yes, provided that the doctor you see does a full evaluation, including records review, X-rays, and MRI. If there are no records or the MRI is more than 6 months old, a new MRI is necessary. From there, the doctor can see if you are a candidate for chiropractic treatments. I use non-surgical spinal decompression with a very high success rate.