Stronger Spine, Less Pain: The Power of Exercise for Manahawkin Disc Herniation
If you have been told you have a lumbar disc herniation, you probably feel the pain all too well—stiffness, sharp twinges, maybe even shooting pain down your leg, something called "sciatica". But here’s the good news: recent research shows that exercise—handled correctly—works as a really strong backup option to your overall treatment plan to reduce pain, bring back movement, and assist you in feeling like yourself again.
NEW STUDIES ON EXERCISE’S BENEFIT
Two major studies published in 2025—one from Acta Neurologica Belgica by Arslan and Ülger, and another from Frontiers in Medicine by Du and colleagues—studied how working out helps people with lower back disc problems. (1,2) Their findings? Not surprising. Exercise works well..
The first study found that certain types of movement—particularly core stabilization, gentle flexibility, and low-impact aerobic exercises—can ease pressure on the discs and lessend inflammation. The result is less daily discomfort and improved physical function. The follow-up research expanded on these findings. It analyzed multiple clinical trials and ended by stating that exercise is more valuable than rest or passive treatments in boosting people’s recovery from disc herniation. For our Manahawkin chiropractic patients, this supports our whole-body, movement-focused approach which incorporates Cox® Technic treatment which is all about motion, too! When your spine is managed with chiropractic care and supported by proper exercise, your body may well heal quicker and function better.
WHAT KIND OF EXERCISE IS BEST?
But not all exercise is created equal. These researchers stress that the key is an individualized program—one created for your specific needs and directed by a healthcare professional. Going too hard or doing the wrong movements can actually make things worse. That’s why working with your Manahawkin chiropractor to build a safe, progressive plan is so important. The bottom line? If you’re dealing with a lumbar disc herniation, movement is help. Combined with Manahawkin chiropractic care, a focused exercise program can speed up healing, lessen pain, and help you get back to doing what you love—without surgery or long-term meds.
Let your body move—and heal—smarter.
CONTACT Manahawkin Chiropractic Center
Listen to this PODCAST with Dr. Jason Charkalis on The Back Doctors Podcast with Dr. Michael Johnson as he details the effectiveness of the chiropractic treatment plan in The Cox® Technic System of Spinal Pain Management for patients with back pain seeking to prevent spine surgery and feel better.
