The discs between your vertebrae work like cushions. A bulging disc pushes outward past its normal edge. A herniated disc goes further: some of the soft inner material pushes through the tougher outer layer. Either one can press on a nearby nerve and cause pain in the neck or back, or pain, numbness and tingling down an arm or leg. At Krieg Chiropractic Center we start with a careful exam and use gentle, low-force care matched to what we find.
A bulge is a wider, more even push of the disc outward. A herniation is a more focused tear where inner material escapes. Disc bulges show up on scans of many people who have no pain at all, so we look at how you move and feel, not only at a picture.
Call 911 or go to the emergency room if back or neck pain comes with any of these: loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness in the groin or inner thighs, weakness in an arm or leg that is quickly getting worse, a recent serious fall or crash, or fever with severe back pain. These need medical care right away.
Your first visit starts with a conversation about your history and goals, then an exam and any imaging we need before anything is recommended. We explain what we found and what we suggest, in plain words, before care starts.
New Patient Special: $24. It covers your consultation and exam, any necessary X-rays, your adjustment, and use of the Human Touch massage chair. By law this offer excludes Medicare and Medicaid recipients.
Request your appointment online or call (406) 541-8888. Same-day appointments are often available.
For many people, yes, when care is matched to the exam. We use gentle, low-force methods and change the plan based on how you respond. If anything in your exam points to a problem that needs a medical doctor or surgeon, we refer you.
A bulging disc pushes outward past its normal edge. A herniated disc has a tear in its outer layer that lets some inner material out. Both can press on a nerve, and both can also show up on scans without causing pain.
A short rest can help for a day or two, but most people do better staying gently active. We show you which movements to favor and which to avoid for now.
No. Most people start with a history and exam. We suggest an MRI referral when your exam shows signs that one is needed.
Krieg Chiropractic Center, 1070 North Russell Street, Missoula, MT 59808. Phone (406) 541-8888.
Hours: Monday, Wednesday and Friday 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Tuesday and Thursday 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM. We see patients from Missoula, Lolo, Frenchtown and nearby towns.