Sophie Chiropracteur Paris

Chiropractor for herniated discs in Paris: natural and lasting relief

A herniated disc is one of the most common spinal conditions, affecting approximately 2% of the French population each year. It occurs when an intervertebral disc ruptures and its nucleus protrudes, compressing the surrounding nerve structures. In Paris, a sedentary lifestyle, long commutes, and heavy lifting significantly increase this risk.

Chiropractic offers a conservative and non-invasive approach to treating herniated discs. At the Sophie Baltaci Chiropractor practice in Paris's 2nd arrondissement, we use gentle spinal adjustment techniques, specifically adapted to disc fragility, to reduce nerve compression and promote the disc's natural healing process.

A herniated disc is a common cause of sciatica and back pain.

Symptoms of a herniated disc

Symptoms vary depending on the location of the hernia (cervical, thoracic or lumbar) and the degree of nerve compression.

Radiating pain

The pain follows the path of the compressed nerve: sciatica for lumbar herniated discs (radiating into the buttock, thigh, and calf), cervicobrachial neuralgia for cervical herniated discs (pain in the arm and hand). This pain is often described as burning or an electric shock.

Sensory and motor disorders

Numbness, tingling (paresthesia), and loss of sensation in the affected nerve area. In more advanced cases, muscle weakness may occur, making walking or grasping difficult.

Stiffness and functional limitation

Significant spinal stiffness, antalgic postures (the body bends to avoid pain), and an inability to maintain certain postures. Coughing, sneezing, and exertion typically worsen the symptoms.

Causes and risk factors

A herniated disc results from a combination of mechanical and degenerative factors that chiropractic can address.

Disc degeneration and mechanical stress

The natural aging of the disc (loss of hydration, micro-fissures in the annulus fibrosus), aggravated by repeated mechanical stresses: prolonged poor posture, lifting heavy loads with incorrect technique, vibrations (driving), and excess weight. Biomechanical imbalances in the spine accelerate this degeneration.

Postural factors and lifestyle

A sedentary lifestyle weakens the muscles that support the spine. Prolonged sitting increases intradiscal pressure by 40% compared to standing. Chronic stress causes muscle tension that alters spinal biomechanics and promotes herniated discs.

Chiropractic treatment of a herniated disc

Chiropractic is recommended as a first-line treatment for uncomplicated disc herniation, before considering more invasive options.

Spinal decompression techniques

Specific chiropractic adjustments using flexion-distraction, a gentle technique that creates negative space within the disc, promoting the retraction of the herniated material. This method is particularly effective for lumbar herniated discs and requires no forceful manipulation.

Mobilization and work of soft tissues

Progressive joint mobilization techniques restore segmental mobility without aggravating the herniation. Working on the soft tissues (muscles, fascia) reduces protective spasms and improves local circulation, accelerating the healing process.

Rehabilitation and prevention of relapse

A program of spinal stabilization exercises (core strengthening), postural and ergonomic education, and advice on managing daily activities. The goal is to prevent recurrence by strengthening the spinal support structures.

Procedure for the care

In-depth evaluation

A complete clinical examination is performed, including neurological tests (reflexes, sensation, muscle strength), specific orthopedic tests (Lasègue test, Slump test), and postural analysis. Analysis of your imaging studies (MRI, CT scan) is integrated to confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment.

Personalized treatment plan

Depending on the severity and location of your hernia, a tailored treatment plan will be developed. The initial sessions will focus on relieving acute pain, followed progressively by functional restoration and prevention of recurrence.

Clinical Results and Data

Clinical studies show that 60 to 80% of patients with herniated discs experience significant improvement with conservative chiropractic treatment, thus avoiding surgery. The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes chiropractic as a validated treatment option for disc disorders. In our practice, the majority of our patients report a noticeable reduction in pain within the first 4 to 6 weeks of treatment.

When should I consult a doctor for a herniated disc?

  • Pain radiating into the arm or leg for more than 48 hours
  • Persistent numbness or tingling in a limb
  • Intense back or lumbar pain after exertion or a sudden movement
  • History of herniated disc with recurrence of symptoms
  • Spinal pain resistant to conventional painkillers
  • A desire for natural treatment before considering surgery
"Sophie is a great chiropractor… i am suffering from a discal hernia… she helped me reaching great comfort following a couple of sessions… highly recommended"
Patrick E.

Frequently asked questions about herniated discs and chiropractic

Can a chiropractor treat a herniated disc?
Yes, chiropractic is effective in treating uncomplicated herniated discs. Flexion-distraction and spinal decompression techniques reduce nerve compression and promote natural disc healing, without surgery.
Are manipulations dangerous in the case of a herniated disc?
The techniques used are specifically adapted to herniated discs: gentle, progressive, and without forced manipulation. A complete preliminary assessment ensures that there are no contraindications. Patient safety is our top priority.
How many sessions are needed for a herniated disc?
The protocol depends on the severity of the hernia. In the acute phase, two sessions per week are recommended for 2-3 weeks, followed by a gradual reduction in frequency. Most patients experience significant improvement within 4 to 8 weeks.
Is an MRI necessary before consulting a chiropractor for a herniated disc?
An MRI is not always necessary as a first-line investigation. A chiropractic clinical examination can often identify the herniated disc. However, if you have an MRI, it will be included in the diagnosis. The chiropractor may also prescribe imaging if needed.
Can a herniated disc heal without surgery?
Yes, in the majority of cases (60-80%), a herniated disc resolves naturally or stabilizes with conservative treatment. Chiropractic accelerates this process by optimizing spinal biomechanics and reducing nerve compression.
What exercises should I do if I have a herniated disc?
Core stability exercises, gentle stretching, and mobility exercises are recommended. Your chiropractor will prescribe a personalized program tailored to your herniated disc. Avoid heavy-weight exercises and forced rotational movements.
Is chiropractic care covered by insurance for a herniated disc?
Chiropractic sessions are not covered by French national health insurance (Sécurité sociale), but many private health insurance companies offer an annual allowance for complementary medicine. Check with your insurer to find out what coverage you have.
What is the difference between a disc protrusion and a herniated disc?
Disc protrusion is an early stage where the disc bulges out without rupture of the annulus fibrosus. Disc herniation involves a rupture with extrusion of the nucleus pulposus. Both respond well to chiropractic treatment, with better results when management is initiated early.

Relieve your herniated disc naturally

Don't wait for your herniated disc to worsen. At Sophie Baltaci Chiropractor's office in Paris's 2nd arrondissement, we offer expert and personalized care for herniated discs, using gentle and proven techniques. Book an appointment now to regain your mobility and quality of life.

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