Burnaby Physio & Massage Therapy
DISC HERNIATION TREATMENT
Treatments
Disc Herniation Treatment (Slipped Disc) in Burnaby - EastWest Physiotherapy
A disc herniation, also called a slipped disc, can be painful, limiting, and disruptive to everyday life. Whether it causes back pain, neck pain, sciatica, or nerve symptoms in your arms or legs, early and appropriate physiotherapy care can make a meaningful difference.
At EastWest Physiotherapy in Burnaby, we provide one-to-one disc herniation treatment in private rooms, combining evidence-based Western physiotherapy with proven Eastern techniques to help relieve pain, restore movement, and support long-term spinal health.
What Is a Disc Herniation (Slipped Disc)?
Your spine is made up of individual bones called vertebrae, separated by intervertebral discs. These discs act as shock absorbers and allow your spine to move smoothly. Each disc has:
- A tough outer ring (annulus fibrosus)
- A soft, gel-like center (nucleus pulposus)
A disc herniation occurs when the inner material pushes outward through a weakened or damaged outer layer. When this bulge or rupture presses on nearby nerves, it can lead to pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness.
The spine is divided into three main regions:
- Cervical spine (neck) – 7 vertebrae
- Thoracic spine (mid-back) – 12 vertebrae
- Lumbar spine (low back) – 5 vertebrae
Disc herniations most commonly affect the lumbar spine and cervical spine, where movement and load are greatest.
What Causes a Disc Herniation?
Disc herniations often develop over time rather than from a single event. Common contributing factors include:
- Age-related degeneration - discs lose hydration and resilience with age
- Repetitive bending or twisting
- Poor posture or prolonged sitting
- Heavy lifting or improper lifting mechanics
- Weak core and spinal stabilizers
- Sudden trauma or injury
- Genetic predisposition
Research shows that many disc herniations respond well to conservative physiotherapy care, reducing the need for injections or surgery in most cases.
Common Symptoms of a Disc Herniation
Symptoms vary depending on the location and severity of the herniation. Some people experience mild discomfort, while others have significant nerve pain.
Common symptoms include:
- Localized neck or back pain
- Sharp, shooting, or burning pain
- Pain radiating into the arm or leg (such as sciatica)
- Numbness or tingling
- Muscle weakness
- Pain worsened by sitting, bending, coughing, or sneezing
Not all disc herniations cause symptoms, and imaging findings do not always match pain levels. A thorough physiotherapy assessment is essential to guide appropriate treatment.
How Physiotherapy Helps Disc Herniation Recovery
Physiotherapy focuses on reducing pain, restoring movement, and improving spinal stability so the disc and surrounding tissues can heal.
Studies published in journals such as Spine and The Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy support physiotherapy as a first-line treatment for disc herniation, particularly when combined with patient education and active rehabilitation.
At EastWest Physiotherapy, treatment is personalized, not cookie-cutter.
Do All Disc Herniations Require Surgery?
No. Research shows that most disc herniations improve without surgery. Conservative physiotherapy care is recommended as the first approach unless there are red-flag symptoms such as progressive neurological loss or bowel/bladder changes. It is also important to note that there are people with disc herniations that have absolutely no symptoms.
Many patients experience significant improvement within weeks to months with proper physiotherapy management.
Our Disc Herniation Treatment Approach at EastWest Physiotherapy
Thorough One-to-One Assessment
Your physiotherapist will assess:
- Movement patterns and posture
- Nerve mobility and neurological signs
- Muscle strength and flexibility
- Spinal joint function
- Daily activities and aggravating positions
This allows us to determine whether symptoms are disc-related, nerve-related, or influenced by surrounding tissues.
Exercise Therapy (Core & Spinal Stabilization)
Exercise is a cornerstone of disc herniation recovery. Research consistently shows that specific, guided exercise improves outcomes and reduces recurrence.
Your program may include:
- Core stabilization exercises
- McKenzie-based or directional preference movements
- Hip and thoracic mobility exercises
- Gradual strength and endurance training
Exercises are progressed carefully to protect the disc while restoring confidence and movement.
Manual Therapy & Joint Mobilization
Hands-on physiotherapy techniques can help:
- Reduce joint stiffness
- Improve spinal mechanics
- Decrease protective muscle tension
- Improve movement tolerance
Manual therapy is always combined with active treatment to ensure long-term results.
Acupuncture / Dry Needling
Acupuncture and dry needling are used to:
- Reduce pain and inflammation
- Decrease muscle guarding
- Improve nerve sensitivity
- Promote circulation and healing
Clinical research supports acupuncture as an effective adjunct for back pain, sciatica, and nerve-related symptoms when combined with physiotherapy.
Electrotherapy & Modalities
When appropriate, we may use modalities such as:
- TENS / IFC for pain modulation
- Ultrasound therapy to support tissue healing, muscle relaxation, improve circulation
- Super Inductive System (Advanced Physiotherapy Modality) using high intensity electromagnetic field therapy to reduce muscle inhibition, decrease pain, improve cellular metabolism
These are used strategically, not as standalone treatments, to support your active recovery.
Postural & Ergonomic Education
Education is critical for preventing flare-ups. We provide guidance on:
- Sitting and standing posture
- Workstation ergonomics
- Sleep positioning
- Safe lifting and bending strategies
Understanding how to protect your spine empowers you to recover faster and avoid re-injury.
Why Choose EastWest Physiotherapy in Burnaby?
- One-to-one physiotherapy care (no overlapping patients, no multiple clients at once)
- Private treatment rooms for comfort and confidentiality
- Evidence-based Western rehabilitation
- Integrated Eastern techniques such as acupuncture and cupping
- Personalized treatment plans, not rushed or generic
- Convenient location near Brentwood and North Burnaby
Our goal is not just to reduce pain, but to help you move confidently and prevent future disc problems.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) - Disc Herniation Treatment
What is the difference between a disc bulge and a disc herniation?
A disc bulge occurs when the disc extends outward evenly without tearing, while a disc herniation happens when the inner disc material pushes through the outer layer. Herniated discs are more likely to irritate nearby nerves, but both conditions can cause pain and respond well to physiotherapy.
Can physiotherapy really help a slipped disc?
Yes. Research shows that most disc herniations improve with conservative treatment such as physiotherapy. Physiotherapy helps reduce pain, improve spinal stability, restore movement, and reduce pressure on irritated nerves – often preventing the need for injections or surgery.
How long does it take to recover from a disc herniation?
Recovery time varies depending on severity, location, and individual factors. Many people notice improvement within 4-6 weeks, while more complex cases may take 2-3 months or longer. Consistency with treatment and exercises plays a major role in recovery speed.
Do I need an MRI before starting physiotherapy?
Not always. Many disc herniations can be diagnosed through a detailed clinical assessment. Imaging such as MRI is typically only required if symptoms are severe, worsening, or not improving with treatment, or if there are red-flag neurological signs.
Is it safe to exercise with a disc herniation?
Yes, when guided by a physiotherapist. Avoiding movement completely can delay recovery. Physiotherapy exercises are carefully selected to protect the disc, reduce nerve irritation, and rebuild strength safely.
Can acupuncture help disc herniation pain?
Acupuncture and dry needling can help reduce pain, muscle tension, and nerve sensitivity associated with disc herniation. Research supports its use as an effective complement to physiotherapy, especially for back pain and sciatica.
What activities should I avoid with a herniated disc?
Activities involving repeated bending, twisting, heavy lifting, or prolonged sitting may aggravate symptoms early on. Your physiotherapist will guide you on which movements to limit and how to modify daily activities safely.
Is walking good for a herniated disc?
Yes. Walking is often encouraged as it promotes circulation, gentle spinal movement, and healing without excessive load. Your physiotherapist will advise on appropriate walking duration and posture.
Book Disc Herniation Physiotherapy in Burnaby
If you are experiencing symptoms of a disc herniation or slipped disc, early physiotherapy care can make a significant difference in your recovery.