Disc Injury Treatment | Physio & Sports Therapy

Clear answers for disc pain

Disc injuries are a common and often misunderstood cause of back pain and sciatica. A disc bulge can cause severe pain, nerve symptoms and a lot of worry. The good news is that many people manage well without surgery.

Our physiotherapists and sports therapists see people with a wide range of disc problems, from a recent flare with leg pain to long-standing back stiffness. We combine hands-on treatment with progressive spinal rehab to help you move and function with more confidence.

Thorough assessment, with GP referral for imaging if needed

Hands-on treatment and exercise rehab

Progressive strength work for your back

Clinical Pilates 1-2-1 at selected clinics

Clear explanations, no scare stories

No GP referral needed to book

Book Your Assessment

What type of disc injury do you have?

A proper assessment is the foundation of a good disc rehab plan.

Disc Bulge

The outer wall of the disc bulges outwards and may irritate nearby nerves. It is often linked to repeated loading or age-related changes, and is common in people with no pain at all.

Disc Herniation

The inner part of the disc pushes through a tear in the outer wall. It can irritate a nerve and cause sharp pain, sciatica or arm or leg symptoms.

Disc Protrusion

A localised bulge where disc material extends beyond its normal edge. Often linked to heavy lifting or a combined bend and twist.

Disc Degeneration

Age-related loss of disc height and hydration. It is very common and can cause stiffness and aching, but doesn't always cause pain.

Acute Disc Injury

A sudden disc injury from a single event, such as lifting something heavy awkwardly, a fall or a car accident.

Nerve Irritation (Sciatica)

When a disc irritates the sciatic nerve, it can cause shooting pain, tingling or numbness from the lower back into the buttock, leg and foot.

When to see a doctor first

Please contact your GP, call NHS 111, or call 999 in an emergency, rather than booking with us, if you have:

Numbness or tingling around your genitals, buttocks or inner thighs: call 999 or go to A&E

New problems controlling your bladder or bowels: call 999 or go to A&E

Weakness, numbness or pins and needles in both legs, or difficulty walking: call 999 or go to A&E

Back pain with a fever or feeling generally unwell: see your GP promptly

Unexplained weight loss, or a history of cancer: see your GP promptly

Pain after a significant fall or accident: see your GP promptly, or go to A&E if it is severe

Pain that keeps getting worse, or is severe at night and not eased by changing position: see your GP

Disc injury questions answered

What is a disc injury?

It's an injury to one of the discs that sit between the vertebrae of your spine. Common types include disc bulges, herniations and protrusions. These can irritate nearby nerves, causing local pain and symptoms such as sciatica.

Can a disc injury get better without surgery?

Many people manage well without surgery, and disc symptoms often settle over time with the right approach. If we think you need imaging or a specialist opinion, we'll tell you and refer you to your GP.

How long does a disc injury take to settle?

It varies from person to person and depends on your symptoms and goals. After your assessment we'll explain what to expect and review your progress regularly.

Do I need a GP referral?

No. You don't need a referral to book with our physiotherapists or sports therapists. If you have any of the warning signs listed on this page, please see your GP or seek urgent medical help first.

"Highly recommend for running-related issues. Jess put together a clear plan to get me ready for my marathon, and her communication was excellent throughout. Thank you!"

"Referred after an increasingly painful knee was impacting on my exercise. Hannah was very thorough in her investigation and analysis of the problem. I noticed a steady but sustained improvement following the recommended exercises over the first week. The exercises were subsequently changed up and the improvement sustained over the next two weeks. What definitely helped was the link between the Injury Active Clinic and the Barn. Hannah provided a briefing for the coaches, ensuring the gym sessions reinforced the recommended physio programme."

"Jess was so lovely and supportive throughout my time with her. She really helped build my confidence and get me back to doing the sports I love! I'm so grateful for all her help and would highly recommend :)"

Book a Pain & Movement Assessment

Rather than resting and hoping it settles, get it looked at. Your assessment gives you a clear explanation of what we think is going on, a plan, and a way to measure your progress.

Book an Assessment

Assessment

A thorough look at your history, how you move and what aggravates it, so we understand what's driving your symptoms.

Your Plan

A clear plan with realistic goals and the right mix of hands-on care and exercise for you.

Build Back Up

Progressive strength and movement work so you can get back to full activity with confidence.

Disc Injury
Treatment

Clear answers for disc pain