Can a Herniated Disc Heal on Its Own? – Kearny Mesa, Ca
Many people in Kearny Mesa search online after being told they have a herniated disc and are unsure what comes next. Some are told to rest and wait. Others are advised to consider injections or surgery. Understandably, the most common question becomes:
“Can a herniated disc heal on its own?”
The answer depends on several factors, and understanding those factors can help prevent unnecessary procedures while also avoiding prolonged suffering.
Understanding What “Healing” Really Means With a Herniated Disc
A herniated disc occurs when the inner material of a spinal disc pushes through its outer layer. Symptoms occur when that disc material irritates or compresses a nearby spinal nerve.
Common symptoms include:
-
Low back or neck pain
-
Pain traveling into the leg or arm
-
Numbness or tingling
-
Muscle weakness
-
Difficulty sitting, standing, or sleeping
Importantly, pain is not coming from the disc itself—it comes from nerve irritation and ongoing mechanical pressure.
When a Herniated Disc May Improve Without Surgery
Some herniated discs do improve over time, particularly when:
-
Nerve inflammation decreases naturally
-
The body partially reabsorbs the herniated disc material
-
The spine is not repeatedly compressed
-
Daily activities do not continually load the injured disc
These cases are more common when herniations are smaller and nerve compression is mild.
Why Many Herniated Discs Do Not Heal on Their Own
Healing becomes far less likely when:
-
Sitting or driving consistently worsens symptoms
-
Disc pressure is present day after day
-
The disc is contacting or compressing a nerve
-
Pain has lasted for months or years
-
Symptoms are progressing rather than improving
-
Weakness or loss of function is present
In these situations, the disc often never gets a chance to unload, even if pain temporarily settles.
Why Time Alone Is Not Always the Answer
Many people are told to “give it time” while managing symptoms with stretching, medications, or injections. While these approaches may temporarily reduce pain, they do not reduce disc pressure.
When compression remains:
-
Symptoms frequently return
-
Flare-ups become more frequent
-
Pain may shift from intermittent to constant
-
Sleep, work, and daily function often suffer
This is when people begin seeking options that address the mechanical cause, not just symptoms.
How Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression (NSSD) Works
Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression is designed to address disc-related mechanical pressure, which is a common factor preventing disc healing.
Using a computer-controlled system, decompression applies precise, alternating forces to the spine. Unlike generic traction, this process is intended to:
-
Reduce pressure within the affected disc
-
Decrease mechanical stress on spinal nerves
-
Create a pressure gradient that may help draw fluids and nutrients back into the disc
At our clinic, decompression is delivered exclusively using DRX9000 true spinal decompression machines, allowing force levels and angles to be customized to the individual spine.
Why Candidacy Must Be Determined First
Not everyone with a herniated disc is a candidate for decompression.
Before care is recommended, it’s important to confirm:
-
Disc and nerve involvement
-
No spinal instability
-
No contraindications such as hardware, severe bone loss, or other red flags
This evaluation-first approach helps ensure care is appropriate, safe, and evidence-informed.
Real Patient Experiences With Herniated Disc Relief
Many patients who come to our Kearny Mesa–area clinic have already tried multiple treatments, and some have even undergone prior surgery.
“I have been dealing with back pain for several years. It got so bad that I had surgery 5 years ago for a bulging disc. About 5 months ago the disc bulged again hitting my sciatic nerve creating pain in my legs that made me want to cry it hurt so bad. After trying so many other options I was fortunate enough to find the spinal decompression and chiropractic center of San Diego. After just a few sessions I noticed a difference. Now after being there for the past few months I'm able to go about my normal life again.
What a blessing it was to find a Dr that genuinely cares and knows how to help people in my situation. Thank you Dr Boelk!”
— Anthony K., San Diego, CA
Summary:
After a previous disc surgery and a recurrent disc bulge causing severe sciatica, Anthony noticed improvement once disc pressure was addressed and was able to return to daily life.
“I travel from the UK to see Dr Boelk and his wonderful team . I have 3 bulging disc and one is touching the nerve. I have the spinal decompression treatment and it really helps keep me in my active life . I will not go to anyone else for back treatment, this place is number one and they genuinely care about their patients.”
— Lisa S., United Kingdom
Summary:
Lisa manages multiple bulging discs with nerve involvement and travels internationally for care, highlighting the importance of experience and proper protocols.
So—Can a Herniated Disc Heal on Its Own?
-
Some can, especially mild cases with limited ongoing compression
-
Many do not, when disc pressure persists
-
Waiting without proper evaluation can delay recovery
-
Healing often requires reducing mechanical pressure, not just symptom control
Understanding where your condition falls on this spectrum is critical.
About Dr. Cassidy Boelk, DC
• Board-Certified Doctor of Chiropractic
• Certified Spinal Decompression Doctor
• Certified Pain-Free Performance Specialist
• California X-Ray Radiology Licensed Doctor
• Member, International Disc Education Association
• Founder, Spinal Decompression Training Academy
• Over 100,000 Spinal Decompression Treatments Performed
• 7 DRX9000 True Spinal Decompression Machines in One Clinic
• Largest Known Provider of Spinal Decompression in California
• Nearly 21 Years Specializing Exclusively in Decompression Care
• Rated #1 Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Office in San Diego
Next Steps Toward Lasting Relief
If a herniated disc is interfering with your ability to sit, work, sleep, or stay active, a proper evaluation can help determine whether your disc is likely to improve on its own or whether additional care may be appropriate.
How to get started:
-
Call (619) 298-0800 or text (619) 884-8298 after hours
-
Bring MRI or X-rays if available
-
Review findings directly with Dr. Boelk and discuss your options
👉 Consultations are no-charge and carry no obligation.
Because availability is limited and many patients travel in from out of state and overseas, appointments are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis.
📍 The Spinal Decompression & Chiropractic Center of San Diego
5095 Murphy Canyon Road, Suite 300
San Diego, CA 92123
📞 (619) 298-0800
📱 (619) 884-8298
🌐 www.SanDiegoBackCare.com
Se habla español.
Referral Policy
Whether referred by a medical doctor, neurologist, orthopedic surgeon, chiropractor, physical therapist, massage therapist, attorney, or through a friend or family member, all patients are seen on a first-come, first-served basis, ensuring adequate time to determine candidacy for care.