Spinal CareGonstead Method

Chiropractic Care for Slipped Disc

Disc-related back and leg pain has a mechanical side, and we look for it carefully, one spinal segment at a time.

Understanding the Condition

What Is a Slipped Disc?

A slipped disc, also called a herniated or prolapsed disc, is when the soft, gel-like centre of a spinal disc (the nucleus pulposus) pushes through a tear in its tougher outer ring (the annulus fibrosus). The displaced material can press on nearby spinal nerves, causing pain, numbness or weakness that spreads into the arm or leg depending on the level involved. It most often affects the lower back, particularly the L4–L5 and L5–S1 levels, though discs in the neck are also commonly involved, and it is one of the leading causes of sciatica and lower back disability in adults aged 25–55. At Bewell's Novena clinic, opening soon, a Gonstead chiropractor assesses your spine by hand, segment by segment: observing your posture, checking for temperature differences along the spine with an instrument, and feeling how each level sits and moves. Any adjustment is made by hand, and only where the findings support it. Severe or worsening leg weakness, numbness in the groin or saddle area, or any change in bladder or bowel control needs urgent assessment by a registered doctor.

About this page

Before you book

Prepared by the Bewell Chiropractic team.

Care at Bewell Chiropractic Novena is led by DC Michiko Liew, founder and principal chiropractor and Ambassador of the Gonstead Chiropractic Society Australia, with DC Lim C. Y. Both hold Doctor of Chiropractic qualifications and are not registered medical practitioners in Singapore.

This page is educational and not a diagnosis. Seek urgent medical care for severe weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, fever, or trauma.

Root Causes

How Does a Slipped Disc Form?

Disc herniation rarely happens overnight. It usually follows cumulative stress on the spine that weakens the disc structure over months or years. Knowing what contributes to it can help you look after your spine day to day.

Age-Related Degeneration

As we age, discs lose water content and elasticity. This natural wear — called disc desiccation — makes the annulus more prone to tearing, even under normal load.

Improper Lifting & Strain

Lifting heavy objects with a rounded back instead of using the legs places enormous shearing force on lumbar discs. A single bad lift can herniate a weakened disc.

Prolonged Sitting & Poor Posture

Sitting places more pressure on the lumbar discs than standing. Years of desk work with poor ergonomics can speed up disc wear, especially at L4–L5.

Excess Body Weight

Additional body weight increases the compressive load on the lumbar discs, and being overweight is associated with a higher risk of lumbar disc herniation.

Smoking & Poor Nutrition

Smoking reduces blood supply to discs, starving them of nutrients and oxygen. This speeds up degeneration and slows the body's repair of small tears in the disc wall.

Genetics & Structural Predisposition

Some people inherit thinner or weaker disc structures. If disc problems run in your family, it is worth paying closer attention to your back.

Progression

The 4 Stages of Disc Herniation

A slipped disc doesn't happen all at once. It usually develops through recognisable stages, and knowing them helps you decide when to have it assessed.

Stage 1Mild

Disc Degeneration

The disc begins to lose hydration and weaken. The nucleus pulposus dries out, reducing the disc's ability to absorb shock. At this stage there is typically no herniation, but the foundation for future problems is forming. You may experience occasional stiffness or mild discomfort after prolonged sitting.

Stage 2Moderate

Disc Prolapse (Bulging)

The weakened nucleus begins to push against the annulus, causing the disc to bulge outward. The outer wall is still intact, but the shape of the disc changes. This stage may cause intermittent pain, especially with bending or lifting, as the bulge contacts nearby nerves. Many people first seek care at this stage.

Stage 3Severe

Disc Extrusion

The nucleus pulposus breaks through the annulus but remains connected to the disc. This extruded material presses directly on nerve roots, causing significant radiating pain (sciatica), numbness and muscle weakness. This is what most people mean when they say "slipped disc." How this stage progresses varies from person to person, so it is worth having it assessed.

Stage 4Critical

Disc Sequestration

Fragments of disc material break away completely and move into the spinal canal. This is the most advanced stage, often causing severe nerve compression, loss of reflexes and, in rare cases, cauda equina syndrome, which is a medical emergency. This stage needs prompt assessment by a registered doctor, and a surgical opinion may be needed.

Many people first notice symptoms at Stage 2 or 3.

Getting assessed early gives you a clearer picture sooner. Signs of Stage 4 need a registered doctor first.

Recognition

Do You Experience These Symptoms?

These are common signs associated with a slipped disc. If they sound familiar, a registered doctor can confirm the diagnosis, and a Gonstead chiropractor can assess how your spine is moving.

Sharp pain in lower back

Localized pain at the site of the herniation

Shooting pain down leg

Radiating pain (often one side) following nerve path

Numbness in toes/foot

Nerve compression causing loss of sensation

Difficulty walking

Weakness or instability when standing or moving

Muscle weakness

Loss of strength in affected leg or foot

Visit Us

Where to find us in Singapore

Bewell offers precise, hands-only Gonstead chiropractic care at Novena Regency on Thomson Road, opening soon.

Bewell Chiropractic Novena

275 Thomson Road #01-19
Novena Regency
Singapore 307645

+65 8859 7326 Get directions

Book ahead

Opening soon in Novena

Bewell's Gonstead clinic opens soon at Novena Regency, 275 Thomson Road. WhatsApp or call +65 8859 7326 to enquire or book ahead.

WhatsApp us Find us

Bewell Chiropractic Novena · 275 Thomson Road #01-19, Novena Regency · near Novena MRT (NS20)

Frequently Asked

Common questions

Many people with a slipped disc are first managed conservatively, and whether surgery is needed is a decision for your doctor. Gonstead chiropractic care focuses on a careful assessment and precise, hands-only adjustment where it is suitable. Every case is different and must be assessed properly.

A slipped disc may cause back pain, leg pain, numbness, tingling or weakness. Only a registered doctor can diagnose it, usually with an examination and, where needed, an MRI scan that shows the disc itself. A Gonstead chiropractor assesses how your spine and pelvis are moving, and will suggest you see a doctor if your symptoms need medical investigation.

Gonstead adjustments are specific and controlled, and are only done after a proper examination. The aim is to adjust the right spinal segment rather than twisting the spine in general. If adjustment is not suitable for you, we will tell you and suggest you see a doctor.

Avoid heavy lifting, bending and twisting together, long periods of sitting, and aggressive stretching. Gentle movement is usually better than staying completely still.

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