Disc Herniation in Waterloo, London SE1
Back or leg pain from a bulging or herniated disc — most settle well with the right approach.
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Disc herniation
A spinal disc sits between the vertebrae and acts as a cushion. A herniation (or ‘bulge’) is when the softer centre pushes out, and it can sometimes irritate a nearby nerve — causing back pain, leg pain, or sciatica.
The reassuring part: most disc problems settle well over time with the right approach, and rarely need surgery.
Often it isn’t where it hurts
It’s worth knowing that disc ‘bulges’ show up on scans in plenty of people with no pain at all — so a scan finding isn’t always the full story. What matters is how the area is loaded and moving. We assess the whole picture to understand what’s irritating the nerve and what’s driving your symptoms, rather than treating a scan report.
How we treat it
Treatment reduces the irritation, restores the movement that’s been guarded or lost, and then rebuilds your back’s tolerance with a progressive, graded plan.
We screen carefully for the small number of cases that need a GP or scan, and we’ll always be honest about that.
Common questions
Do I need surgery for a disc herniation?
Usually not — the large majority settle with conservative treatment over time. Surgery is reserved for a small minority.
My scan showed a disc bulge — is that definitely the cause?
Not necessarily. Disc bulges are common in pain-free people too, so we assess how you actually move and load rather than treating the scan alone.
Will it heal?
Most disc herniations improve, and the body often reabsorbs the herniated material over time. We’ll give you a realistic picture.
Should I rest?
Gentle movement usually helps more than bed rest. We’ll guide what’s safe for your specific case.
We’re ready to help you navigate your pain — when you are.
Most people who come to us have been carrying this for too long, hoping it would settle on its own. When you’re ready to actually understand what’s driving it, we’re here. Start with a free 15-minute call, or send a message below — we’ll come back to you personally.
- ✆07796 508097
- ✉info@londonosteopath.com
- ⌂91 Westminster Bridge Road, London SE1 7HW
Near Lambeth North & Waterloo
