Disc injuries · September 25, 2026
Herniated disc: what the Austin exam checks first
A herniated disc on an old MRI is a picture, not a decision. Plenty of people have disc changes and no leg pain, and plenty of leg pain is not a disc. TexStar’s four clinics start with an exam that asks whether the symptoms follow a nerve. Results vary.
What “herniated disc” usually means in the room
The disc is the cushion between two vertebrae. A herniation means some of that material is sitting farther out than it used to. The question that changes care is whether it is irritating a nerve. Pain, numbness, or weakness in a strip down the leg or arm is the clue. An ache that never leaves the back may still be a joint or a muscle.
The full guide is on the herniated disc page. This article is about where to have the exam and what happens before a machine is switched on.
Where to book
All four offices examine disc-type pain and all four have spinal decompression. Use South Austin from Oak Hill and Circle C, Bee Cave from Lakeway and Spanish Oaks, Buda from Kyle and Manchaca, and Belterra from Dripping Springs and Driftwood. Buda opens at 9am Monday through Thursday. The others open at 8am. Friday is 8am to noon everywhere.
How the first hour is spent
You describe what you could do before the pain and what you cannot do now. The doctor tests strength, reflexes, and nerve tension. If those findings do not match the MRI phrase, the plan follows the findings. An adjustment, decompression, rehab, or laser may be part of care when they fit. None of them is assigned because a webpage listed disc injuries.
Mention the $98 offer when you schedule if you want the new-patient special: consult, exam, one trial treatment, and a findings review. X-rays, if needed for one area, are a separate $33. Restrictions may apply.
Signs to get emergency care instead
Saddle numbness, new incontinence, or weakness that is increasing the same day should not wait for a clinic appointment. Fever with severe spine pain also needs medical care first.
Care at TexStar is non-surgical and drug-free. It is matched to the person in the room. It may reduce pain and improve function. Results vary.
Common Questions
Do I need a new MRI before the visit?
Bring images you already have. The doctor does not require a new MRI to start the exam. X-rays of one area are ordered only when they would change the plan.
Is spinal decompression used for every disc?
No. Decompression is considered when the exam fits. A disc that is not matching the leg pain is not a reason to use the table.
Can chiropractic replace a surgical opinion?
No. Non-surgical care may reduce pain and improve function for some people. It is not a promise about surgery. Results vary. Worsening weakness or new bowel or bladder changes need emergency care.