Stronger Spine, Less Pain: The Power of Exercise for Toronto Disc Herniation

Got a lumbar disc herniation diagnosis? You’re not alone. You probably know the pain all too well—stiffness, sharp twinges, maybe even shooting pain down your leg, something called "sciatica". The upside is that newer research describes that exercise—done the right way—makes for an excellent extra resource to your general treatment plan to reduce pain, restore movement, and assist you in feeling like yourself again.

NEW STUDIES ON EXERCISE’S BENEFIT

Two big studies published in 2025—one from Acta Neurologica Belgica by Arslan and Ülger, and another from Frontiers in Medicine by Du and colleagues—looked into exercise benefits for lower back disc injuries. (1,2) What did they find?? Exercise works. And it works well.

The first study found that certain forms of movement—particularly core stabilization, gentle flexibility, and low-impact aerobic exercises—can decrease pressure on the discs and lessend inflammation. That means less pain and better mobility. The second study went even further. It evaluated multiple clinical trials and concluded that exercise is more valuable than rest or passive treatments in helping people recover from disc herniation. For our Toronto chiropractic patients, this supports our whole-body, movement-focused approach which incorporates Cox® Technic treatment which is centered on movement, too! When your spine is managed with chiropractic care and maintained by appropriate exercise, your body may well heal faster and function better.

WHAT KIND OF EXERCISE IS BEST?

But not all exercise is created equal. These researchers emphasize that the key is a personalized program—one designed 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 Toronto chiropractor to build a safe, progressive plan is so important. The bottom line? If you’re dealing with a lumbar disc herniation, motion is healing. Combined with Toronto chiropractic care, a focused exercise routine can speed up healing, lessen pain, and help you get back to doing what you love—without surgery or long-term meds.

Move! Heal.

CONTACT Yorkville Chiropractic and Wellness Centre

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 back pain patients seeking to prevent spine surgery and feel better.