Introduction

In recent years, the diagnosis of “herniated disc” has become increasingly common—not only among older individuals but also among active young people. Experts often cite many causes: a sedentary lifestyle, sudden movements, poor posture, or even stress.

But what if a herniated disc is not actually a disease of the disc itself, but rather the result of chronic muscular tension?

The real cause of a herniated disc is compression created by muscles

The intervertebral disc is not an isolated structure. It’s part of a system that is directly affected by the surrounding tissues—especially the muscles.

When deep muscles like the quadratus lumborum, iliopsoas, piriformis, and others are chronically tense, they generate tremendous compression on the spinal segments.

Studies show that intradiscal pressure can reach 15–20 atmospheres.
To help you visualize that: the pressure inside your car tires is usually around 2 atmospheres. Now imagine your spine under ten times that pressure — this is what happens when your deep postural muscles stay tight and compressed for too long.

That kind of internal force literally pushes the disc’s nucleus outward. That’s when a bulging disc (protrusion) occurs—and if the outer layer tears, it becomes a herniation.

Why is this important to understand?

Because without addressing the muscle-fascial tension, any attempt to “treat” a herniated disc—whether through medication, injections, or even surgery—will only bring temporary relief.
The root cause remains, and symptoms often return.

Real healing begins with muscle release

I’m convinced that the true path to recovery begins with working on the muscle-fascial system.
Special attention must be given to:

• the quadratus lumborum

• the iliopsoas muscle

• the pelvic and hip muscles

• and the sacroiliac joint

Working on these areas helps to:

• relieve pressure from the spine

• restore proper disc hydration

• and — if there is no irreversible damage — even reduce the herniation itself

Conclusion

A herniated disc is not a life sentence. It’s a signal that your body is overwhelmed by internal pressure.
Treating a herniated disc is not about fighting the disc — it’s about restoring balance to the whole system, starting with the muscles.

If you're seeking lasting results, don't focus only on the disc — look deeper, into the muscular layers.

Before you go for surgery, come see us at Energy Flow Clinic.

Give yourself one more chance to heal — naturally, without surgery.

👉 Book your appointment today at energyflowclinic.com