Non-Surgical Disc Care in Sarasota
An individualized conservative plan for selected disc-related neck, back, arm, and leg symptoms, built after examination and reviewed through re-examination.
Spinal decompression
Cervical or lumbar traction on a Triton DTS table for selected disc cases.
Class 4 laser
The LZR7 ZX2 Class 4 laser as a clinician-directed adjunct.
Radial pressure-wave
Intelect RPW 2 for relevant surrounding soft-tissue findings only.
Chiropractic adjustments
Selected for joint-motion and mechanical findings on examination.
Disc-related pain can be confusing. A bulging or herniated disc may irritate a nearby nerve and contribute to neck pain, low-back pain, sciatica, or arm symptoms, but it does not always do so. Many people have disc changes on imaging without symptoms. At Bretz Chiropractic Clinic, the non-surgical disc care program starts with an examination and, when clinically indicated, a review of existing imaging or a referral for new imaging. If conservative care appears suitable, Dr. Bretz builds an individualized plan. Selected plans may combine spinal decompression, Class 4 laser, radial pressure-wave therapy, and chiropractic adjustments. Many patients hope to avoid surgery; that is a reasonable goal to discuss, but no conservative plan can promise it, and results vary.
Who the program may be considered for
The program may be considered for selected people with herniated or bulging discs, sciatica, or disc-related neck or arm symptoms when the examination does not show red flags and conservative care appears reasonable. It is not appropriate for everyone. Some cases need medical evaluation, injections, or a surgical opinion, and the clinic refers when that is the better path.
Step 1: Examination and relevant imaging
The first visit includes a history and orthopedic and neurological testing, including strength, reflexes, and sensation where relevant. Existing imaging is reviewed, and imaging is obtained when clinically indicated. Findings are interpreted together, because an MRI finding on its own does not explain symptoms.
Step 2: Choosing the components
Not every plan uses every component. Decompression may be considered for selected disc-related cases. The Class 4 laser may be used as an adjunct. Radial pressure-wave therapy is considered only for relevant surrounding soft-tissue findings, such as tender muscle or tendon areas; it is not used to treat the disc or the nerve. Chiropractic adjustments are selected for joint-motion and mechanical findings, and some areas may be avoided depending on the exam. Home guidance and activity advice are usually part of the plan.
Step 3: Re-examination and referral
Progress is checked through re-examination, comparing symptoms, function, and examination findings with the starting point. If you are improving, the plan may be tapered. If you are not improving, if symptoms worsen, or if new findings appear, the plan is changed or you are referred to a medical physician or specialist. Conservative care should not delay needed medical treatment.
- Examination first; imaging when clinically indicated
- Components chosen for your findings
- Avoiding surgery is a goal, not a promise
- Re-examination guides every change
- Referral when conservative care is not suitable or not helping
Related Services
Spinal Decompression
Cervical and lumbar decompression on two Chattanooga Triton DTS tables, considered for selected cases after examination.
Class 4 Laser Therapy
The clinic's LZR7 ZX2 Class 4 laser, used as a clinician-directed adjunct within an individualized plan.
Radial Shockwave Therapy
Radial pressure-wave therapy with the Chattanooga Intelect RPW 2, considered for selected tendon, myofascial, and surrounding soft-tissue findings.
Non-Surgical Disc Care Program — FAQ
Questions about non-surgical disc care program?
Call or book online to discuss an appointment and ask questions about your visit.