HERNIA
DISC
A disc herniation occurs when part of an intervertebral disc presses on a nerve root and causes pain that can radiate into the leg or arm. At Dr. Verbitskiy in Maribor we offer non‑surgical manual treatment tailored to the severity and location of the herniation.
Disc herniation is one of the most common diagnoses patients come to us with after having imaging (MRI or X‑ray) performed by their physician. The good news is that most disc herniations do not require surgery — in mild and moderate cases manual therapy often significantly reduces nerve pressure and pain.
How a disc herniation develops
The intervertebral disc loses elasticity with age, making it more susceptible to injury. A herniation often arises as a combination of long-term wear and a single triggering event:
- 🔹 Gradual degeneration of intervertebral discs due to aging
- 🔹 Incorrect lifting of heavy loads, especially with twisting of the spine
- 🔹 Repetitive loading in physical work or certain sports
- 🔹 Prolonged sitting that increases pressure on lumbar intervertebral discs
- 🔹 Excess body weight and weak trunk stabilising muscles
- 🔹 Genetic predisposition to weaker connective tissue
Recognising the symptoms of a disc herniation
Symptoms of a disc herniation depend on which nerve is affected and how severe the compression is. Most commonly we observe:
- 🔹 Localised pain in the lower back or neck, depending on the hernia location
- 🔹 Pain radiating down the leg (sciatica) or arm, often below the knee or below the elbow
- 🔹 Tingling or numbness in the leg, foot, arm, or fingers
- 🔹 Weakness of specific muscle groups, e.g. when lifting the foot
- 🔹 Worsening pain with prolonged sitting, coughing, or sneezing
- 🔹 Occasional relief when walking compared to sitting
Non-surgical approach to disc herniation
The goal of manual therapy for disc herniation is to reduce pressure on the nerve root, release surrounding muscles, and gradually improve mobility — avoiding surgery where possible.
1. Thorough assessment
Review of neurological signs, mobility, and any imaging results you may have.
2. Targeted manual therapy
Gentle techniques to relieve pressure on the nerve and relax surrounding muscles.
3. Gradual recovery
Monitoring progress and gradual return to normal daily activities.
Disc herniation and problems we help with
People most often come to us with these problems:
- 🔹 Lower back pain radiating into the leg
- 🔹 Neck pain radiating into the arm
- 🔹 Tingling or numbness in the fingers
- 🔹 Pain that gets worse when sitting, bending or lifting
- 🔹 A herniation confirmed on MRI and the search for a non-surgical path
- 🔹 Recurring pain after previous spine problems
Signs that require immediate attention
Some forms of disc herniation require immediate medical or neurosurgical care. Seek urgent help right away if you notice loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness in the groin area ("saddle" numbness), rapidly progressing muscle weakness, or inability to walk. These signs may indicate cauda equina syndrome, which requires urgent surgical assessment.
Even in less urgent cases, seek specialist advice as early as possible, since early management often prevents a mild herniation from developing into a more serious, long-term problem.
What our patients say
Verbitskiy, Manualna terapija - Osteopatija, diagnostika, rehabilitacija, d.o.o. · Maribor
Watch videos about manual therapy and osteopathy on our YouTube channel.
Visit YouTube channel →Signs of a herniated disc and a pinched nerve
Signs of a herniated disc
The most common signs are pain in the lower back or neck that radiates into the leg or arm, tingling, a feeling of numbness and worsening when sitting, sneezing or lifting. A medical examination and usually imaging are needed for confirmation.
Pinched nerve in the spine
A pinched nerve means irritation of a nerve root next to the spine due to a herniated disc, muscle tension or wear-and-tear changes. It shows up as radiating pain and tingling.
Frequently asked questions about disc herniation
What are the signs of a herniated disc?
Pain in the lower back or neck that radiates into the leg or arm, tingling, numbness and worsening when sitting or lifting. The diagnosis is made by a doctor, usually with imaging.
What is a pinched nerve in the spine?
It is irritation of a nerve root next to the spine, showing up as radiating pain and tingling.
Does a disc herniation always require surgery?
No, most disc herniations are successfully managed non-surgically. Surgery is mainly required for severe, progressive neurological deficits or cauda equina syndrome.
Can manual therapy worsen a disc herniation?
When performed correctly and tailored to the patient, manual therapy is safe. We always assess the condition thoroughly before treatment to select suitable techniques.
How long does improvement take with a disc herniation?
Many patients notice improvement within a few weeks; complete recovery may depend on the size of the herniation and can take several months.
Do I need an MRI before the appointment?
An MRI is not required for the first assessment, but it is useful information if you already have one, as it helps us better understand your condition.
Can manual therapy completely eliminate a herniated disc?
Manual therapy reduces pressure and pain and improves function; the herniated structure may partially shrink naturally over time, depending on the case.
Is movement safe with a disc herniation?
With caution: targeted movement is often beneficial and is included in treatment — complete bed rest long-term is not recommended.
Contact us
Get in touch with any questions or to book an appointment.
Please bring one large towel with you to your appointment.
Please confirm your appointment by phone or WhatsApp one hour beforehand, or two hours beforehand if you are travelling a long way. This way you avoid a wasted trip if an appointment has to be rescheduled at short notice.