Herniated Disc Explained: Pain, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options

A herniated disc is one of the most common causes of neck pain, back pain, and radiating arm or leg symptoms. While the term can sound alarming, many people experience significant relief once they understand what a herniated disc is, how it’s diagnosed, and what treatment options are available. This guide explains the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and herniated disc treatment options—both conservative and advanced—so you can make informed decisions about your care.

What Is a Herniated Disc?

Your spine is made up of vertebrae stacked on top of one another, with intervertebral discs acting as shock absorbers between each bone. Each disc has a tough outer layer (annulus fibrosus) and a softer, gel-like center (nucleus pulposus).

A herniated disc occurs when the outer layer weakens or tears, allowing the inner material to bulge or leak outward. When this happens, nearby nerves may become irritated or compressed, leading to pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness.

Herniated discs most commonly occur in the:

• Lumbar spine (lower back)

• Cervical spine (neck)

Common Causes of a Herniated Disc

Herniated discs rarely happen overnight. In most cases, they develop gradually due to repetitive stress or degeneration.

Age-Related Wear and Tear

As we age, discs lose hydration and elasticity, making them more vulnerable to injury—even during routine movements.

Poor Posture and Prolonged Sitting

Extended sitting, especially with poor ergonomics, increases pressure on spinal discs and accelerates disc breakdown.

Repetitive Movements or Heavy Lifting

Improper lifting techniques, twisting motions, or repetitive strain can overload the spine and cause disc damage.

Trauma or Injury

Falls, sports injuries, or sudden impacts may cause acute disc herniation.

Herniated Disc Symptoms

Symptoms depend on the disc’s location and whether nearby nerves are affected.

Lower Back (Lumbar) Herniated Disc Symptoms

• Low back pain

• Sciatica (pain radiating down the leg)

• Numbness or tingling in the leg or foot

• Muscle weakness

• Pain that worsens with sitting, bending, or coughing

Neck (Cervical) Herniated Disc Symptoms

• Neck pain or stiffness

• Shoulder or arm pain

• Tingling or numbness in the arm or hand

• Weak grip strength

• Headaches in some cases

Not all herniated discs cause pain—many are discovered incidentally on imaging.

How a Herniated Disc Is Diagnosed

Comprehensive Physical Examination

A thorough exam evaluates posture, range of motion, reflexes, muscle strength, and nerve function. Movement patterns often reveal more than imaging alone.

Imaging Studies

• MRI is the gold standard for visualizing disc herniation and nerve involvement

• X-rays may be used to rule out fractures or instability.  X-rays should be done before an MRI for additional, easy to see information on the overall structure and skeletal anatomy.  Looking for pars defects, arthritis, facet hypertrophy, Schmorls nodes and decreased disc spaces are important to visualize. 

• CT scans are used less commonly but can provide additional detail

Imaging findings should always be correlated with symptoms and exam findings—many people have disc bulges without pain.  Many of our patients have had MRI’s in the past.  Some have never had one.  Chiropractors are able to refer patients directly for X-rays, MRI’s and other various diagnostic studies as needed.  Insurance usally covers these exams, but even if yours doesn’t or if you don’t even have insurance, we can get those tests for you at reasonable fees.  We regularly work with Lenox Hill Radiology, Stand-Up MRI, Manhattan MRI and others when necessary.  

Herniated Disc Treatment Options

The majority of patients improve with conservative herniated disc treatment, avoiding surgery altogether.  We see patients in our office every day with herniated discs.  We use a variety of methods to help them manage bulging and herniated discs depending on the person and their level of severity.

Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care focuses on improving spinal motion, reducing nerve irritation, and restoring proper biomechanics. Gentle, targeted adjustments may help relieve pressure on affected discs and nerves while supporting overall spinal health.

Spinal Decompression Therapy

Non-surgical spinal decompression works by gently reducing pressure within the disc, promoting nutrient flow and helping relieve nerve compression—especially helpful for disc-related leg or arm pain.

Therapeutic Exercise and Movement

Specific exercises help:

• Strengthen supporting muscles

• Improve flexibility

• Enhance spinal stability

• Prevent future flare-ups

Movement-based care is often key to long-term recovery.

Soft Tissue Therapy

Muscle tightness and inflammation often accompany disc injuries. Techniques such as myofascial release, IASTM, and stretching can reduce tension and improve circulation.

Lifestyle and Ergonomic Changes

Improving posture, workstation setup, sleep position, and daily movement habits reduces disc stress and supports healing.

When Is Surgery Considered?

Surgery is typically reserved for cases involving:

• Progressive neurological weakness

• Loss of bowel or bladder control (a medical emergency)

• Severe pain that does not respond to conservative care

Even in these situations, most patients are encouraged to try conservative herniated disc treatment first.

Can a Herniated Disc Heal Naturally?

Yes—many herniated discs improve over time. The body can gradually reabsorb disc material, and inflammation often decreases with appropriate care. Supporting this process with guided movement, spinal care, and proper loading strategies can significantly improve outcomes.  When we visualize MRI’s and see the desiccated or dehydrated discs together with actual bulging, this is not a positive sign.  After a course of treatment, sometimes we will send people out for more diagnostic studies to show the improvement.  Most of the time, the reduction in symptomatology is enough to satisfy patients.

Preventing Future Disc Problems

• Maintain good posture

• Stay active and avoid prolonged sitting

• Strengthen core and stabilizing muscles

• Lift with proper technique

• Address minor pain early before it worsens

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can a herniated discs heal on its own?

In many, yes. With proper care and movement, symptoms often improve without surgery.

Is walking good for a herniated disc?

Yes. Walking promotes circulation, reduces stiffness, and supports disc health when done within tolerance.

Does a herniated disc always cause pain?

No. Many people have disc herniations on MRI without any symptoms.

How long does recovery take?

Recovery varies, but many patients notice improvement within weeks to months with consistent conservative care.

Can chiropractic care make a herniated disc worse?

When appropriately tailored to the patient’s condition, chiropractic care is generally considered safe and focused on reducing irritation—not increasing it.

When to Seek Professional Care

If you’re dealing with disc-related pain and want to explore conservative herniated disc treatment options, a comprehensive evaluation can help identify the root cause and the best path forward. This could present as neck pain, back pain, radiating symptoms (sensations down the arms or legs), or muscle weakness.  Schedule an assessment to determine whether chiropractic care and movement-based treatment are right for you.

Looking for a chiropractor near you? Book your appointment today and take the first step toward a healthier, pain-free future!

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Lower Back Pain: Why Rest Often Makes It Worse

When it comes to lower back pain, one of the most common pieces of advice people receive is to “just rest.” While short periods of rest can be helpful during an acute flare-up, too much rest can actually make lower back pain worse, slow healing, and increase the risk of chronic pain. At Lamb Chiropractic, we see this pattern every week—patients who rested, waited it out, and now feel stiffer, weaker, and more limited than when the pain first started.

Understanding why rest can backfire is key to recovering faster and preventing recurring lower back issues.

Why Rest Feels Helpful at First

In the early stages of lower back pain, rest can temporarily reduce discomfort. When tissues are irritated or inflamed, taking pressure off the area may feel relieving. This is especially true during the first 24–48 hours after an injury.

But the problem starts when rest turns into inactivity.

Your spine is designed for movement. Joints, discs, muscles, and nerves rely on motion to stay healthy. When movement stops, the healing process often stalls.

How Too Much Rest Makes Lower Back Pain Worse

Joint Stiffness and Loss of Mobility

Spinal joints need regular motion to maintain lubrication and flexibility. Prolonged rest reduces joint movement, leading to stiffness—especially in the lumbar spine. This stiffness can make simple movements like standing, bending, or walking more painful.

Muscle Weakness and Deconditioning

When you rest too long, the muscles that support your lower back—especially your core and glutes—begin to weaken. Weak support muscles place more strain on spinal joints and discs, often worsening lower back pain rather than relieving it.

Reduced Blood Flow and Slower Healing

Movement increases circulation, which delivers oxygen and nutrients to injured tissues. Too much rest limits blood flow, slowing the body’s natural repair process and prolonging pain.

Increased Disc Pressure

Ironically, certain resting positions—especially prolonged sitting or lying down—can increase pressure on lumbar discs. Without gentle movement to redistribute forces, disc-related lower back pain can intensify over time.

The Science Supports Movement, Not Bed Rest

Modern research consistently shows that extended bed rest is not recommended for most cases of lower back pain. Clinical guidelines now emphasize early, controlled movement and gradual return to normal activity as more effective than prolonged rest.

Movement helps:

• Restore joint motion

• Reduce muscle guarding

• Improve spinal stability

• Decrease pain sensitivity

This doesn’t mean pushing through pain—but it does mean avoiding fear-based inactivity.

When Rest Is Appropriate for Lower Back Pain

Rest still has a role—but it should be strategic and temporary.

Short-term rest may be appropriate when:

• Pain is severe or sharply acute

• There is significant inflammation

• Certain movements clearly aggravate symptoms

The key is transitioning from rest to guided, purposeful movement as soon as it’s safe.

How Chiropractic Care Helps Lower Back Pain Heal Faster

At Lamb Chiropractic, we focus on restoring motion, not just masking pain. Chiropractic care helps address the underlying mechanical and neurological issues that cause lower back pain to persist.

Restoring Joint Motion

Gentle, specific spinal adjustments help improve mobility in restricted segments of the lumbar spine.

Reducing Muscle Tension and Guarding

When joints move better, surrounding muscles can relax, reducing protective tightness and spasms.

Improving Nervous System Function

The spine protects the nervous system. Better spinal motion often leads to improved communication between the brain and body—supporting natural healing.

Encouraging Safe, Targeted Movement

We guide patients on when and how to move, helping them avoid both over-resting and overdoing it.

Why “Waiting It Out” Often Backfires

One of the biggest mistakes we see is people hoping lower back pain will “just go away” with time and rest alone. Unfortunately, the longer pain lingers, the more the body adapts to dysfunction—making recovery harder later.

Early evaluation and movement-based care often mean:

• Faster recovery

• Fewer flare-ups

• Less chance of chronic pain

FAQs About Lower Back Pain and Rest

Should I rest if my lower back hurts?

Short-term rest may help initially, but prolonged rest often makes lower back pain worse. Gentle movement is usually more effective.

How long should I rest for lower back pain?

In most cases, no more than 24–48 hours of reduced activity before gradually resuming movement.

Can walking help lower back pain?

Yes. Walking is one of the safest and most effective ways to keep the lower back moving without excessive strain.

Is bed rest bad for disc-related lower back pain?

Extended bed rest can increase stiffness and disc pressure. Controlled movement is typically recommended.

When should I see a chiropractor for lower back pain?

If pain lasts more than a few days, keeps returning, or limits daily activities, a chiropractic evaluation can help identify and address the cause.

Final Thoughts: Motion Is Medicine for the Lower Back

While rest feels intuitive, lower back pain often improves faster with the right kind of movement. Too much rest can stiffen joints, weaken muscles, and slow healing—keeping you stuck in pain longer than necessary. If your lower back pain isn’t improving—or keeps coming back—don’t wait it out.

👉 Schedule a comprehensive lower back evaluation at Lamb Chiropractic to find out what’s really causing your pain and get a movement-based plan designed to help you heal, not just rest.

Located in Midtown Manhattan near Grand Central.

Looking for a chiropractor near you? Book your appointment today and take the first step toward a healthier, pain-free future!

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What Neurologists Think of Chiropractors (and the Truth About Neck Adjustment Safety)

Neck pain, headaches, and dizziness are some of the most common reasons people seek chiropractic care. At the same time, many patients ask an important question: what do neurologists actually think about chiropractors—especially when it comes to neck adjustments and stroke risk?

The answer is more nuanced than social media headlines or fear-based articles suggest. Neurologists and chiropractors approach spine care from different perspectives, but both professions prioritize patient safety. This article explains what neurologists truly think about chiropractic care, what the research says about cervical adjustments, and how modern chiropractors reduce risk through screening and technique selection.

What Neurologists and Chiropractors Actually Do

What neurologists do

Neurologists specialize in conditions involving the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and blood vessels. They diagnose and manage problems such as stroke, transient ischemic attacks, migraines, neuropathy, multiple sclerosis, and cervical artery dissections. Because neurologists often see patients after serious neurological events occur, they tend to be especially cautious about anything that could affect the nervous or vascular systems.

What chiropractors do

Chiropractors focus on musculoskeletal and biomechanical conditions, particularly those involving the spine. They commonly help patients with neck pain, back pain, headaches, postural issues, and joint dysfunction. Modern chiropractic care typically includes a detailed history, neurological screening, physical examination, manual therapy, corrective exercise, and referral to medical providers when symptoms fall outside a musculoskeletal pattern.

Why Neck Adjustments Are Sometimes Linked to Stroke

Concerns about chiropractic neck adjustments usually involve a rare condition known as cervical artery dissection, which can affect the vertebral or carotid arteries in the neck.

Understanding the anatomy

The vertebral arteries travel through the cervical spine and help supply blood to the brainstem and posterior brain. A dissection occurs when a small tear develops in the artery wall, potentially leading to clot formation and reduced blood flow. Cervical artery dissections are uncommon but represent an important cause of stroke in younger adults.

Dissections can occur spontaneously or after everyday activities such as sports, sudden neck movement, or minor trauma. In many cases, the exact cause is never identified.

How Common Is Stroke After Chiropractic Neck Adjustments?

This topic is often misunderstood.

Large population studies have shown that vertebrobasilar stroke is extremely rare. Research has also demonstrated that people who experience this type of stroke often visited either a chiropractor or a primary care physician shortly before the event. This supports the idea that neck pain or headache may sometimes be an early symptom of an evolving artery dissection rather than the result of treatment.

How rare is the risk?

Because cervical artery dissection is uncommon, exact risk estimates vary. However, the prevailing scientific conclusion is that serious vascular events following cervical manipulation are very rare on a per-visit basis, with estimates often cited in the range of hundreds of thousands to several million manipulations.

Importantly, cervical artery dissections also occur in the general population without any chiropractic care at all. An association does not automatically prove causation.

What Neurologists Actually Say About Chiropractic Care

Most neurologists do not oppose chiropractic care as a whole. Their concerns usually center on:

• missed vascular or neurological diagnoses

• manipulation performed in patients with concerning symptoms

• lack of informed consent in some settings

At the same time, many neurologists acknowledge that chiropractic care can be effective for mechanical neck pain, headaches, and musculoskeletal conditions when used appropriately.

The real issue is not whether chiropractic works, but whether the right patient receives the right type of care at the right time.

Screening for Vertebrobasilar Insufficiency: George’s Test and Modern Practice

Historically, chiropractors were taught positional screening methods such as George’s Test to check for vertebrobasilar insufficiency. This test involves placing the neck in specific positions to see whether symptoms like dizziness, nausea, or visual changes occur.

Modern research shows that these positional tests have low sensitivity and cannot reliably rule out cervical artery dissection on their own. As a result, contemporary best practices emphasize:

• careful patient history, especially sudden or unusual neck pain or headache

• neurological examination

• blood pressure and vascular risk assessment

• identification of red flags and timely referral when appropriate

No single test can guarantee safety. Clinical judgment remains essential.

How Modern Chiropractors Reduce Risk in Cervical Adjustments

Chiropractic cervical techniques have evolved significantly. Many chiropractors, including myself, intentionally minimize rotational stress during neck adjustments.

Technique choices that prioritize safety

These approaches may include:

• minimizing end-range rotation

• emphasizing lateral flexion and mid-range movement

• adjusting force and speed based on the individual patient

• using mobilization, soft-tissue therapy, or exercise instead of manipulation when appropriate

• avoiding cervical manipulation when symptoms suggest a vascular or neurological concern

These strategies reduce stress on the vertebral arteries and cervical muscles while still improving mobility and function.

Red Flags That Require Immediate Medical Evaluation

Not all neck pain is mechanical. Seek immediate medical care if neck pain is accompanied by:

• sudden severe headache

• dizziness or loss of balance

• vision changes

• facial drooping or weakness

• numbness or tingling on one side of the body

• difficulty speaking

• fainting or near-fainting

Prompt evaluation can be life-saving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do neurologists approve of chiropractic care?

Most neurologists do not oppose chiropractic care in general. They tend to support conservative, non-invasive treatment for mechanical conditions when proper screening, informed consent, and referral practices are followed.

Can a chiropractic neck adjustment cause a stroke?

A statistical association has been reported between cervical manipulation and cervical artery dissection-related stroke, but causation has not been proven. Many researchers believe early symptoms of dissection may lead patients to seek care shortly before a stroke occurs.

How common is stroke after a neck adjustment?

Serious vascular events following cervical manipulation appear to be extremely rare on a per-visit basis. Cervical artery dissections also occur in the general population without chiropractic care.

How do chiropractors make neck adjustments safer?

Chiropractors improve safety by screening carefully, minimizing end-range rotation, using lower-risk techniques when appropriate, obtaining informed consent, and referring patients when symptoms fall outside a mechanical pattern.

Who should avoid cervical adjustments?

Patients with sudden unexplained neck pain, severe headache, neurological symptoms, known vascular conditions, or other red flags should receive medical evaluation before any manual neck treatment.

The Bottom Line

From a neurological and scientific standpoint:

• Chiropractic care is widely used and generally safe for appropriate patients.

• Cervical artery dissection and stroke are rare events.

• Association does not equal causation.

• Modern chiropractic care emphasizes screening, technique selection, and patient safety.

Patients benefit most when chiropractors and neurologists work from a shared understanding of risk, anatomy, and clinical judgment.

Medical Disclaimer

This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or replace medical advice. Stroke symptoms or sudden neurological changes require immediate medical evaluation. Chiropractic care is not appropriate for every condition, and treatment decisions should be made on an individual basis after a thorough examination and, when necessary, referral to a medical professional.

Lamb Chiropractic is devoted to delivering gentle, effective and most importantly, SAFE chiropractic care.

📍 Conveniently located near Grand Central Station
📅 Schedule Your Appointment Today

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When people are dealing with pain, stiffness, or recurring injuries, one of the most common questions they ask is:
Should I see a chiropractor or a medical doctor?

Both chiropractors and medical doctors are licensed healthcare professionals, and both play important roles in modern healthcare. However, their training, clinical focus, and treatment approaches differ, which can create confusion for patients trying to choose the right type of care.

Understanding these differences can help you make informed decisions—especially when dealing with back pain, neck pain, headaches, or movement-related conditions.

Chiropractor vs Medical Doctor: Two Different Healthcare Models

The Medical Model

Medical doctors are trained primarily to diagnose and manage disease. Their education emphasizes:

• Pathology and internal medicine
• Pharmacology and injections
• Diagnostic imaging and laboratory testing
• Surgical intervention when appropriate

This approach is essential for trauma, infection, organ-based disease, and medical emergencies. In many cases, it is lifesaving.

However, many musculoskeletal conditions—such as chronic back pain, posture-related neck pain, or disc irritation—are not always best resolved with medication alone. While drugs can reduce symptoms, they often do not address the mechanical or functional cause of pain.

The Chiropractic Model

Chiropractic care focuses on how the body moves and functions, particularly the relationship between the spine, joints, muscles, and nervous system.

Rather than asking only “What is the diagnosis?”, chiropractors are trained to ask:

• How is this joint moving?
• Is nerve irritation contributing to symptoms?
• Is posture, work stress, or repetitive strain playing a role?
• Why does this problem keep returning?

Treatment is conservative and typically includes spinal and joint adjustments, soft-tissue therapies, rehabilitation exercises, and movement education designed to restore function and reduce stress on the body.

Education, Training, and Scope of Practice

The educational pathways of chiropractors and medical doctors are more similar than many people realize, particularly in their early training.

Before entering chiropractic college, students must complete a bachelor’s degree with a strong science emphasis, including many of the same premedical prerequisite courses required for medical school. These commonly include biology, chemistry, organic chemistry, physics, and advanced anatomy and physiology.

Chiropractic education itself is a doctoral-level program, typically four years in length, with extensive coursework in:

• Gross anatomy and neuroanatomy
• Physiology and pathology
• Orthopedics and neurology
• Biomechanics and spinal mechanics
• Clinical diagnosis and differential diagnosis
• Diagnostic imaging

Chiropractors are trained to evaluate complex cases, recognize red-flag symptoms, and determine when a condition requires referral to a medical doctor or specialist. This emphasis on differential diagnosis and appropriate referral is a core component of modern chiropractic education.

Diagnostic Imaging Expertise

Chiropractors receive formal training in:

• Taking and positioning diagnostic X-rays
• Interpreting spinal and extremity radiographs
• Reviewing and interpreting MRI findings of the spine

This allows chiropractors to assess spinal alignment, disc health, joint integrity, and degenerative changes—while also identifying findings that require further medical evaluation.

Rehabilitation & Physical Therapy Training

In addition to manual care, chiropractors are extensively trained in rehabilitation and physical therapy principles.

Chiropractors are required to pass national board examinations that include physical therapy content, qualifying them to:

• Design and supervise rehabilitation programs
• Provide neuromuscular re-education
• Administer many evidence-based physical therapy modalities, such as electrical stimulation, therapeutic ultrasound, laser therapy, traction, and exercise-based care

This combination allows chiropractors to address not only pain, but also movement dysfunction, stability, and long-term recovery.

Chiropractors do not replace medical doctors. Instead, they function as musculoskeletal specialists, similar to how cardiologists, orthopedists, or neurologists focus on specific systems within medicine.

What Does the Research Support?

Current clinical guidelines and research support chiropractic care for:

• Low back pain
• Neck pain
• Certain headache types
• Mechanical disc-related pain
• Joint and mobility restrictions

Modern chiropractic care emphasizes evidence-based practice, appropriate clinical scope, and collaboration with other healthcare providers. Skepticism typically arises when chiropractic care is portrayed as a treatment for conditions outside musculoskeletal or neuromechanical health—an approach that does not reflect responsible, contemporary chiropractic practice.

Safety, Screening, and Collaboration

Chiropractic care is widely regarded as safe when performed on properly screened patients. A competent chiropractor will:

• Perform a thorough history and examination
• Identify red flags and contraindications
• Refer for imaging or medical care when appropriate
• Avoid treatment when chiropractic care is not indicated

Many chiropractors work closely with medical doctors, physical therapists, and other healthcare providers to ensure patients receive the most appropriate care for their condition.

Chiropractor vs Medical Doctor: Which Is Right for You?

You may need a medical doctor if you are experiencing:

• Fever, infection, or unexplained weight loss
• Severe trauma or suspected fracture
• Progressive neurological symptoms
• Signs of systemic illness

You may benefit from a chiropractor if you are dealing with:

• Back or neck pain
• Sciatica or disc-related symptoms
• Headaches related to posture or tension
• Joint stiffness or restricted movement
• Pain that keeps returning despite medication

In many cases, patients benefit most from a combined approach, using conservative chiropractic care first and escalating treatment only when necessary.

The Role of Chiropractic in Modern Healthcare

Healthcare is increasingly moving toward a model that prioritizes conservative, non-invasive care before more aggressive interventions.

Chiropractic fits naturally into this model by helping patients:

• Improve mobility and function
• Reduce pain without unnecessary medications
• Restore healthy movement patterns
• Prevent recurring injuries

When chiropractors and medical doctors collaborate, patient outcomes often improve.

A Thoughtful, Evidence-Based Approach at Lamb Chiropractic

At Lamb Chiropractic, our focus is simple:
identify the cause of pain, not just the symptom.

We perform thorough evaluations, explain findings clearly, and design individualized care plans based on clinical need—not pressure. When chiropractic care is appropriate, we provide it with precision and purpose. When medical care is needed, we refer without hesitation.

Ready to Get Clear Answers About Your Pain?

If you’re unsure whether chiropractic care or medical care is right for your condition, a proper evaluation can make all the difference.

👉 Schedule a consultation at Lamb Chiropractic
👉 Understand what’s causing your pain
👉 Learn your options with clarity and confidence

Education Comparison: Chiropractor vs Medical Doctor (Quick Reference)

Chiropractor

• Bachelor’s degree with science & premed prerequisites
• Doctoral-level chiropractic education
• Extensive anatomy, neurology, orthopedics, and imaging training
• Trained in differential diagnosis and referral
• Licensed to take and interpret X-rays
• Trained in spinal MRI interpretation
• Physical Therapy training
• Focus on musculoskeletal and functional care

Medical Doctor

• Bachelor’s degree
• Medical school + residency
• Broad training across all organ systems
• Pharmacology and surgical expertise
• Manages systemic and acute medical conditions

Chiropractors and Medical Doctors: Different Roles, Shared Goals

While chiropractors and medical doctors are often portrayed as being at odds, the reality is that there is a time and place for both approaches to care. Medical doctors play a critical role in diagnosing disease, managing emergencies, prescribing medication, and performing surgery when necessary. Chiropractors, on the other hand, focus on restoring movement, improving biomechanics, and supporting the body’s ability to heal through conservative, hands-on care. When both professions take the time to understand each other’s training, scope, and strengths, collaboration becomes not only possible but beneficial. In real-world practice, the best outcomes often occur when chiropractors and medical doctors work together—referring appropriately, communicating clearly, and keeping the patient’s long-term health as the shared goal.

If you’re dealing with ongoing pain, stiffness, or movement limitations and want a conservative, exam-based approach that works alongside—not against—medical care, chiropractic may be the right next step. A thorough evaluation can help determine whether chiropractic care is appropriate for your condition or if a referral to another healthcare provider is needed.

📍 Conveniently located near Grand Central Station
📅 Schedule Your Appointment Today

Looking for a chiropractor near you? Book your appointment today and take the first step toward a healthier, pain-free future!

Send us a message if you have any questions or would like to schedule your first chiropractic visit at Lamb Chiropractic in New York, NY!

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As a chiropractor and lower back disc specialist in Midtown Manhattan, I evaluate pain from a biomechanical perspective first. The way your spine moves, absorbs load, and coordinates with the hips and pelvis plays a major role in whether pain develops — and whether it persists.

Understanding what can be mistaken for lower back pain helps patients avoid misdiagnosis, delayed care, and unnecessary procedures.

Why Lower Back Pain Is Often Misdiagnosed

The lower spine shares nerve pathways with the hips, abdomen, pelvis, and internal organs. Because of this overlap, pain can be referred to the lower back even when the spine itself is not the primary problem.

This is why imaging alone doesn’t always tell the full story — and why a thorough physical and biomechanical examination is essential when treating lower back pain in Midtown Manhattan patients.

Conditions Commonly Mistaken for Lower Back Pain

Kidney Stones

Kidney stones often cause sharp, intense pain felt in the lower back or flank. Unlike mechanical lower back pain:

• Pain does not change with posture or movement
• Symptoms may come in waves
• Nausea or urinary changes are common

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

UTIs, particularly kidney infections, can present as deep aching lower back pain accompanied by:

• Fever or chills
• Burning with urination
• Fatigue

Lower back pain plus fever is not typical musculoskeletal pain and requires prompt evaluation.

Appendicitis

Appendicitis can initially present as right-sided lower back or hip pain. In my Midtown Manhattan practice, I’ve seen patients convinced they needed emergency surgery when their pain was actually biomechanical. After a targeted chiropractic adjustment, their pain resolved — confirming the spine and pelvis were the true source.

This distinction is critical.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis can cause chronic lower back and pelvic pain due to inflammation and nerve irritation. Pain often:

• Worsens around menstruation
• Feels deep and constant
• Does not respond predictably to movement

While chiropractic care does not treat endometriosis directly, optimizing spinal and pelvic mechanics can significantly reduce musculoskeletal stress layered on top of the condition.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

PID may cause referred lower back pain and is often associated with:

• Fever
• Fatigue
• Pelvic or abdominal discomfort

Lower back pain with fever is a red flag.
I’ve referred patients from my office directly to the ER when symptoms suggested a medical emergency — including one case involving ruptured uterine fibroids.

Herniated or Bulging Discs

Disc injuries are a leading cause of lower back pain in Midtown Manhattan professionals, especially those who sit for long hours. Symptoms may include:

• Deep aching stiffness
• Pain into the glute or hip
• Worse pain with sitting or bending
• Flare-ups rather than constant pain

As a lower back disc specialist, my focus is on reducing nerve irritation, restoring spinal motion, and improving load distribution — often without injections or surgery.

Hip Joint Dysfunction

Limited hip mobility forces the lower back to compensate, leading to overload and pain. If walking, squatting, or rotating your leg worsens your lower back pain, the hip is often involved — even when imaging focuses only on the spine.

Sacroiliac (SI) Joint Dysfunction

SI joint dysfunction can mimic disc pain and is a frequent cause of one-sided lower back pain. Proper diagnosis and specific chiropractic adjustments often lead to rapid improvement.

Gallbladder Problems or Gallstones

Gallbladder issues can refer pain into the mid-to-lower back, often on the right side. This pain:

• Does not change with movement
• May worsen after fatty meals
• Can include nausea or digestive symptoms

Because this pain is non-mechanical, knowing when to refer is essential.

Red Flag Symptoms That Require Immediate Medical Care

If you’re experiencing lower back pain in Midtown Manhattan along with any of the following, seek medical attention immediately:

• Fever or chills
• Unexplained weight loss
• Loss of bowel or bladder control
• Progressive numbness or weakness
• Severe night pain that doesn’t change with position

How Chiropractic Care Helps Lower Back Pain

When lower back pain is biomechanical, chiropractic care can:

• Restore proper spinal and joint motion
• Reduce disc and nerve pressure
• Improve hip and pelvic coordination
• Prevent recurring flare-ups

Many Midtown Manhattan patients are surprised by how much better they feel once their spine starts moving the way it was designed to.

Get Expert Help for Lower Back Pain in Midtown Manhattan

If you’re dealing with persistent lower back pain and want real answers — not guesswork — a biomechanical evaluation can make all the difference. You can still live well even with chronic pain by following these 10 steps.

Read more about joint health in our next blog post.

At Lamb Chiropractic, I specialize in lower back disc conditions and complex spinal pain, helping patients get clarity, relief, and long-term results.

📍 Conveniently located near Grand Central Station
📅 Schedule Your Appointment Today

Looking for a chiropractor near you? Book your appointment today and take the first step toward a healthier, pain-free future!

Send us a message if you have any questions or would like to schedule your first chiropractic visit at Lamb Chiropractic in New York, NY!

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Pain at the base of the skull is a very common complaint and can be caused by a variety of conditions.  These include, but are not limited to tension headaches, nerve compression, poor posture and muscle spasm.  If untreated, it can lead to chronic headaches, nerve irritation, and mobility issues. This kind of pain can be so nagging and prevalent as to impact activities of daily living.  Even productivity and general mood and demeanor are affected.  As a chiropractor who has seen countless cases of patients complaining about pain at the base of the skull, I can definitely say how important proper spinal alignment and posture is to prevent and address this condition. 

Understanding Pain at the Base of the Skull

• Common reasons for pain:

1. Occipital Neuralgia

This is a condition where the occipital nerves—running from the top of the spinal cord up through the scalp—become irritated or compressed. From a chiropractic standpoint, this often results from one of three things.  Poor posture, spinal misalignments (especially in the upper cervical spine), or muscle tension in the neck and shoulders. These issues can create pressure on the occipital nerves, leading to sharp, shooting, or throbbing pain at the base of the skull. Chiropractic care focuses on correcting misalignments, reducing muscle tension, and restoring normal function to relieve nerve irritation and reduce or eliminate the pain associated with occipital neuralgia.

2. Tension Headaches

Tension headaches often cause dull, aching pain at the base of the skull due to chronic muscle tension in the neck and upper back. From a chiropractor’s perspective, this tension is frequently linked to poor posture, prolonged screen time, or stress, which leads to misalignments in the cervical spine and tightness in the suboccipital muscles. These misalignments can irritate nearby nerves and restrict normal movement, further contributing to headache pain. Chiropractic care helps by restoring proper spinal alignment, releasing muscle tension, and improving posture.  This ultimately reduces the frequency and intensity of tension headaches and promoting long-term relief at the root cause.

3. Poor Posture and Cervical Misalignment

Poor posture—especially forward head posture from prolonged computer or phone use—places excessive strain on the neck and back. From a chiropractor’s perspective, this stress often leads to cervical misalignments, particularly in the upper spine near the base of the skull. These misalignments can compress nerves, tighten surrounding muscles, and reduce mobility, resulting in pain, stiffness, and tension at the base of the skull. Over time, the imbalance worsens, contributing to chronic discomfort and even headaches. How does chiropractic care help? It restores proper spinal alignment, and relieves muscular tension to correct the root cause and prevent recurring pain.

• Getting a proper diagnosis is key to how we can best treat and manage pain at the base of the skull.   This may require a variety of diagnostic studies including X-ray, MRI or CT scan in addition to a thorough chiropractic consultation and examination.

What are the Common Causes of Pain at the Base of the Skull?

• Cervical spine issues

  Conditions such as cervical spondylosis, disc bulges or herniations, and congenital anomalies like a chiari malformation, can irritate nerves and strain muscles near the base of the skull. From a chiropractor’s standpoint, these problems disrupt normal movement and posture, leading to inflammation and tension. Chiropractic adjustments help restore alignment, relieve pressure, and reduce pain at its source.

• Cervicogenic Headaches

  Cervicogenic headaches originate from dysfunction in the cervical spine, often due to joint or muscle issues. From a chiropractor’s perspective, misalignments in the neck irritate nerves and refer pain to the base of the skull. Chiropractic care addresses these root issues to relieve pressure and restore normal movement and function.

• Suboccipital Muscle Tension

  Tight suboccipital muscles, often from forward head posture or prolonged screen time, can irritate nerves and create pressure at the base of the skull. Chiropractors see this as a common cause of tension headaches. Gentle adjustments and soft tissue work help release muscle tension and restore proper alignment for lasting relief.

• Nerve Compression
  

  Nerve compression in the upper cervical spine can trigger sharp or radiating pain at the base of the skull. Chiropractors identify distortions, herniated discs, or tight muscles as common causes. By restoring alignment and relieving pressure on irritated nerves, chiropractic care helps reduce pain and improve nerve function naturally.

• Poor Posture

  Forward head posture shifts the head’s weight ahead of the spine, placing strain on the neck and upper back muscles. Chiropractors recognize this imbalance as a major contributor to tension and joint stress near the skull base. Corrective adjustments and posture training help realign the spine and relieve persistent discomfort.

• Spinal Misalignment

  A subluxation, or misalignment of the cervical vertebrae, can irritate nearby nerves and strain surrounding tissues at the base of the skull. Chiropractors view this as a root cause of chronic neck pain and headaches. Targeted spinal adjustments restore alignment, reduce nerve interference, and support natural healing and relief.

Your first chiropractic visit is a step toward better health, improved mobility, and a pain-free life. By keeping an open mind, dressing comfortably, and understanding the process, you’ll feel more confident and ready to embrace the benefits of chiropractic care and holistic treatments.

 Looking for a chiropractor near you? Book your appointment today and take the first step toward a healthier, pain-free future!

Send us a message if you have any questions or would like to schedule your first chiropractic visit at Lamb Chiropractic in New York, NY!

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.

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