Golf Injuries & Lower Back Pain in West LA | West Los Angeles Chiropractic®

Golf Injuries & Lower Back Pain in West LA: What Golfers Need to Know

Golf is one of the most common causes of lower back injury among recreational athletes in West LA. The rotational mechanics of the swing place repetitive compressive and torque forces on the lumbar spine — especially at L4–L5 and L5–S1 — making disc injuries, muscle strains, and nerve compression the most frequent golf-related conditions we treat at West Los Angeles Chiropractic®.

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Why Golf Is Harder on Your Spine Than Most People Realize

Golf looks low-impact. It isn't — at least not for your lumbar spine.

A full golf swing generates significant rotational torque through the lower back, with peak forces occurring at impact. Over 18 holes, a golfer repeats this motion dozens of times. Add in walking uneven terrain, carrying or pulling a bag, and bending over putts, and the cumulative spinal load adds up quickly.

For golfers in West LA, Brentwood, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, and Culver City playing regularly through summer, this repetitive stress is exactly how disc injuries develop — not from one dramatic moment, but from accumulated compression over time.

The most vulnerable spinal levels are L4–L5 and L5–S1 — the lowest two segments of the lumbar spine. These are the same levels most commonly involved in sciatica, herniated discs, and degenerative disc disease.

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The Most Common Golf Injuries We Treat

Lower back pain and disc injuries are by far the most common. The golf swing's rotational mechanics create a combination of compression, rotation, and lateral bending that places maximum stress on the lumbar discs. For players with any pre-existing disc vulnerability, a few rounds can be enough to trigger an acute flare-up.

Neck pain and upper back tension develop from the address position — the forward head posture many golfers hold at setup, combined with the rotation of the follow-through.

Golfer's elbow (medial epicondylitis) is an overuse injury affecting the inside of the elbow, caused by the grip and impact forces of the swing.

Shoulder and rotator cuff strain occurs from the overhead and rotational demands of the backswing and follow-through, particularly in players with existing shoulder tension.

Hip and SI joint pain can develop from the weight shift and pelvic rotation involved in the swing, particularly in players with hip mobility restrictions.

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How Chiropractic Care Helps Golfers

Chiropractic care addresses the structural cause of golf-related pain — spinal misalignment created by repetitive rotational stress.

At West Los Angeles Chiropractic®, Dr. Michael Karr — a UCLA Kinesiology graduate with over 35 years of experience treating sports and golf injuries — begins every new patient visit with in-office digital X-rays, taken and read same day. You see exactly what is happening in your spine before treatment begins.

Chiropractic adjustment restores proper spinal alignment, reduces mechanical stress on the joints and discs, and relieves nerve compression — helping golfers move more freely and with less pain.

The 2017 American College of Physicians (ACP) clinical practice guidelines recommend spinal manipulation as a first-line treatment for low back pain before medications or surgery.

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Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression for Golf-Related Disc Injuries

For golfers with herniated or bulging discs aggravated by the golf swing, chiropractic adjustment alone may not fully address the disc itself.

Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression using the DRX9000 applies specifically calibrated traction forces designed to create negative intradiscal pressure — with the goal of reducing disc herniation and promoting conditions that may support disc healing.

This is not just pain relief. It targets the structural disc damage that the golf swing created.

The DRX9000 is FDA-cleared and backed by 28 clinical studies, 20 published in peer-reviewed journals — making it the most researched non-surgical spinal decompression technology available.

Candidacy is determined by clinical evaluation and review of diagnostic imaging. Individual results vary.

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Additional Treatments

Depending on your specific condition, treatment at West Los Angeles Chiropractic® may also include:

• Cold laser therapy — reduces inflammation at the injury site without medication
• MedX spinal rehabilitation — rebuilds the core stability that protects your spine through the demands of a golf swing
• Therapeutic massage — releases muscle tension guarding the injury site
• Custom Foot Levelers Orthotics — corrects foot and ankle biomechanics that affect your stance, weight transfer, and swing mechanics

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When to See a Chiropractor (Rather Than Playing Through It)

See Dr. Karr if you experience:

• Lower back pain or stiffness that develops during or after a round
• Pain that starts in the lower back and radiates into one leg or buttock (sciatica)
• Neck stiffness or pain that worsens after a round
• Pain that keeps you from finishing 18 holes
• A disc injury that flares up with the rotational demands of your swing

Many golfers delay care because the pain seems manageable between rounds. By the time it becomes acute, the disc involvement is typically more advanced and recovery takes longer. Earlier evaluation means faster return to the course.

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Why West LA Golfers Choose West Los Angeles Chiropractic®

West Los Angeles Chiropractic® has treated sports and golf injuries in West LA since 1989. Dr. Karr holds a degree in Kinesiology from UCLA and received postgraduate honors in radiology — meaning he reads your X-rays himself, in the office, the same day.

We are conveniently located at 11340 W. Olympic Blvd., Suite 165 — ground floor, free parking, near the 405 and 10 freeways — serving golfers from West LA, Santa Monica, Brentwood, Beverly Hills, Culver City, Venice, Westwood, Mar Vista, Playa Vista, and West Hollywood.

We accept Medicare, most PPO insurance (Anthem Blue Cross, Cigna, Aetna, UnitedHealthcare), Workers' Comp, MedPay, and CareCredit. New patients: $99. Open Saturdays.

Call Betty to schedule: 310-914-9400

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is lower back pain from golf common? Yes — lower back pain is the most common golf injury among recreational players, particularly affecting the L4–L5 and L5–S1 spinal levels. The rotational and compressive forces of the golf swing place significant stress on the lumbar spine with every shot.

Can a chiropractor help with golf back pain? Yes. Chiropractic care addresses spinal misalignment created by repetitive rotational stress and relieves mechanical pressure on the discs and nerves. The 2017 ACP guidelines recommend spinal manipulation as a first-line treatment for low back pain before medications or surgery.

What is the fastest way to recover from a golf back injury? Early evaluation and treatment produces the fastest recovery. In-office digital X-rays identify the exact cause of pain on the first visit. Treatment may include chiropractic adjustment, Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression, cold laser, and MedX rehabilitation — combined based on your specific condition. Delaying care typically extends recovery time.

Can I keep playing golf during chiropractic treatment? It depends on the severity of your condition. Dr. Karr will advise you specifically after reviewing your X-rays and examination findings. Many patients continue modified activity during treatment while avoiding the movements that aggravate the injury.

Does insurance cover chiropractic care for golf injuries in West LA? Yes. West Los Angeles Chiropractic® accepts Medicare, most PPO plans, Workers' Comp, and MedPay. Call Betty at 310-914-9400 and we will verify your coverage before your first visit at no cost to you.

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Individual results vary. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before beginning any treatment program. Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression candidacy is determined by clinical evaluation and review of diagnostic imaging.

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"I've Been Doing PT for Weeks and My Sciatica Is Still There." Here's Why — and What to Try Next.

"I've Been Doing PT for Weeks and My Sciatica Is Still There." Here's Why — and What to Try Next.

It's one of the most common things we hear at West Los Angeles Chiropractic®: a patient has been diligently attending physical therapy for weeks — stretching, strengthening, icing — and the shooting pain down their leg is still there. Often it's worse. The reason usually comes down to one thing: PT treats the muscles around the problem. Chiropractic care and non-surgical spinal decompression treat the problem itself.

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The Core Difference Nobody Explains to You

Sciatica is nerve pain. It happens when something — usually a herniated disc, a misaligned vertebra, or a bone spur — presses directly on the sciatic nerve in your lower spine.

Physical therapy is excellent at strengthening the muscles that support your spine. But if a disc is pressing on your sciatic nerve, no amount of core strengthening moves that disc. The compression is still there. The nerve is still irritated. The pain continues.

Chiropractic care works on the spine itself — realigning vertebrae and relieving mechanical pressure on the nerve. But for many patients with a true disc herniation, there is a second problem that even a great chiropractic adjustment cannot fully address: the disc wall is torn.

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The Disc Herniation Problem Most Providers Miss

When a disc herniates, two things happen simultaneously:

1. The outer wall of the disc tears. Every disc in your spine has a tough outer ring called the annulus fibrosus. When that outer wall develops a tear — from injury, repetitive stress, or degeneration — the soft inner material (nucleus pulposus) pushes through that opening.

2. That inner material compresses your nerve. The escaped disc material presses on the sciatic nerve, causing the shooting pain, numbness, and tingling down your leg.

Most treatments focus only on Problem #2 — relieving the nerve pressure. That matters. But if the tear in the disc wall is not addressed, the disc remains structurally compromised, and the pain often returns.

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Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression: Targeting the Disc Itself

At West Los Angeles Chiropractic®, Dr. Michael Karr offers Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression using the DRX9000 — FDA-cleared technology designed to address disc herniation at its source.

Here is how it works:

The DRX9000 gently distracts the spine, creating a precise negative pressure inside the damaged disc. This negative intradiscal pressure is designed to:

• Help retract herniated disc material away from the nerve
• Promote nutrient flow and rehydration to the damaged disc
• Create conditions that support healing of the annular tear itself

The goal is not simply to mask pain. The goal is to support the disc's own healing process — reducing the herniation and encouraging repair of the wall that tore.

The DRX9000 is the most researched non-surgical spinal decompression technology available. There are now 28 clinical studies on this technology, 20 of which are published in peer-reviewed journals. Thousands of patients across the country have been treated with the DRX9000 as a non-surgical alternative before considering injections or surgery.

Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression may not be appropriate for every patient. Dr. Karr reviews your X-rays and clinical presentation to determine whether you are a candidate.

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What Dr. Karr Does That Most Providers Skip

Dr. Michael Karr is a UCLA Kinesiology graduate who has treated sciatica and disc injuries in West LA since 1989. He received radiology honors — meaning he reads your X-rays himself, in the office, the same day you arrive.

Most new sciatica patients have never had their lumbar spine examined on X-ray. They have been treated based on symptoms alone. That changes on your first visit here. You see exactly where the problem is. You understand what is causing your pain. Treatment is built around your spine specifically — not a generic protocol.

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How the Three Approaches Compare 

Your situation	Best fit
Sharp, shooting pain down one leg	Chiropractic + Spinal Decompression evaluation
Diagnosed herniated or bulging disc	Chiropractic + Spinal Decompression (DRX9000)
Pain after lifting, twisting, sudden movement	Chiropractic adjustment first
Tried PT 4+ weeks with limited improvement	Chiropractic + Spinal Decompression evaluation
Post-surgical spine rehab	Physical therapy
General core weakness, no nerve pain	Physical therapy
Mild aching without radiating pain	Physical therapy

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What Your First Visit Looks Like

• Digital X-rays of your lumbar spine — taken and read same day
• Orthopedic testing to identify the exact nerve level involved
• A clear explanation of what is causing your pain
• A treatment plan that may include chiropractic adjustment, Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression, cold laser, MedX rehabilitation, or massage — based on your specific condition

We accept Medicare, most PPO insurance (Anthem Blue Cross, Cigna, Aetna, UnitedHealthcare), Workers' Comp, MedPay, and CareCredit. New patients: $99 for your first chiropractic. Call Betty for spinal decompression pricing and coverage verification.

We're at 11340 W. Olympic Blvd., Suite 165 — ground floor, free parking, near the 405 and 10. Serving West LA, Santa Monica, Brentwood, Beverly Hills, Culver City, Venice, Westwood, Mar Vista, Playa Vista, and West Hollywood. Open Saturdays.

Call Betty: 310-914-9400

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why didn't physical therapy fix my sciatica? Physical therapy strengthens the muscles around your spine but cannot reposition a herniated disc, correct spinal misalignment, or address a tear in the disc wall. If disc compression or annular damage is the cause of your sciatica, structural treatment — chiropractic adjustment and/or spinal decompression — targets the source directly.

What is Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression and how does it help a herniated disc? Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression uses the FDA-cleared DRX9000 to gently distract the spine, creating negative pressure inside the damaged disc. This is designed to help retract herniated disc material, promote disc rehydration, and support healing of the annular tear — the structural damage that caused the herniation. The DRX9000 has been the subject of 28 clinical studies, 20 published in peer-reviewed journals.

Is Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression FDA cleared? Yes. The DRX9000 is FDA-cleared technology. It is a non-invasive, non-surgical treatment used for disc herniation, bulging discs, degenerative disc disease, and sciatica. Dr. Karr will determine whether you are a candidate based on your clinical history and X-rays.

How is treating the disc different from just treating the nerve? Treating the nerve addresses your pain symptoms — the shooting, burning, or numbness down your leg. Treating the disc addresses the structural cause — the herniation and the annular tear that created it. Ideally, both are addressed. Chiropractic adjustment helps restore alignment and relieve nerve pressure; spinal decompression is designed to help the disc itself heal.

Can I do both chiropractic and physical therapy? Yes, and many patients benefit from both at different stages. Chiropractic care and Spinal Decompression for the acute disc phase — then PT-style stabilization to rebuild strength and prevent recurrence.

Is Chiropractic and Spinal Decompression covered by insurance?We accept Medicare, most PPO plans, Workers' Comp, and MedPay. Call Betty at 310-914-9400 and we will verify your specific coverage. — at no cost to you. Note: Medicare does not cover spinal decompression.

Does Dr. Karr treat sciatica from herniated discs? Yes — herniated and bulging discs causing sciatica are among the most common conditions we treat. In-office digital X-rays show the exact vertebral levels involved so treatment is targeted, not guesswork.

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📞 Call Betty: 310-914-9400 🌐 WestLosAngelesChiropractic.com 📍 11340 W. Olympic Blvd., Suite 165, Los Angeles, CA 90064 📘 

*Individual results vary. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional before beginning any treatment program. Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression may not be appropriate for every patient — candidacy is determined by clinical evaluation and review of diagnostic imaging.

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Summer Sports Injuries in West LA: Chiropractic Treatment That Gets You Back Faster | West Los Angeles Chiropractic®

Summer sports injuries — including lower back strains from beach volleyball, shoulder impingement from swimming, knee pain from hiking, and overuse injuries from running the Strand — are best treated within days of occurrence. At West Los Angeles Chiropractic®, Dr. Michael C. Karr diagnoses the root cause with same-day digital X-rays and corrects it non-surgically, so you stay active all summer long.

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West LA Summer Is Hard on Your Body

Beach volleyball at Santa Monica. Hiking Temescal Canyon or Runyon. Pickleball at Penmar. Tennis at Barrington Park. Cycling through Brentwood or Playa Vista. Running the Strand from Marina del Rey to Manhattan Beach.

West Los Angeles offers some of the most active outdoor environments in the country. And every summer, that activity level spikes — especially among residents and tech professionals who spend the week at a desk and push hard on weekends.

The result is a familiar pattern: the "weekend warrior" injury. You feel it Saturday afternoon. By Monday morning, it's telling you it isn't going away on its own.

The mistake most people make is waiting. They ice it. They rest it. They expect it to resolve. And sometimes it does — only to come back with the next workout, hike, or beach day. The structural problem was never corrected.

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The Most Common Summer Sports Injuries We Treat

Lower back strains are the most frequent sports injury we see in summer. Beach volleyball, surfing, hiking on uneven trails, and sudden rotational movements from tennis or pickleball all stress the lumbar spine. When the supporting muscles are fatigued, a single awkward movement can cause a muscle strain, disc compression, or facet joint irritation.

Shoulder injuries are a close second. Swimming, volleyball, and overhead sports all place significant stress on the rotator cuff and shoulder joint. Shoulder impingement — where the rotator cuff tendons compress against the shoulder blade — is particularly common among swimmers and volleyball players who use their arms repetitively through a full range of motion.

Knee and hip pain from running and cycling are increasingly common as Westside residents log more miles in summer. IT band syndrome, patellofemoral pain, and hip flexor tightness from increased mileage without adequate recovery are the most frequent diagnoses.

Ankle and foot injuries from hiking and trail running affect patients who push into uneven terrain in Santa Monica Mountains, Temescal Gateway Park, or Griffith Park. Ankle sprains, plantar fasciitis, and Achilles tendon irritation often develop after trail activity spikes in summer.

Neck pain from swimming is underdiagnosed. The rotational neck movement required for freestyle stroke — combined with inadequate flexibility — compresses cervical discs and irritates cervical facet joints. Patients often dismiss this as "muscle soreness" until it becomes chronic.

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Why Summer Injuries Become Chronic Problems

The physiology of sports injuries is straightforward: when soft tissue — muscle, tendon, or ligament — is damaged, the body responds with inflammation followed by a repair process. If that repair process isn't supported correctly, scar tissue forms in a disorganized pattern that leaves the tissue weaker and more prone to re-injury.

The spine adds a layer of complexity. Disc injuries from summer activities often present initially as muscle soreness. But if a disc is compressed or herniated, the underlying structural problem will not resolve on its own. Each subsequent workout puts more stress on an already compromised disc — accelerating degeneration and increasing the risk of nerve compression.

This is why patients who "rest and ice" a summer injury and return to activity two weeks later often find the injury returns — and is worse the second time.

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How Chiropractic Care Treats Summer Sports Injuries

At West Los Angeles Chiropractic®, Dr. Michael C. Karr — a UCLA Kinesiology graduate with 35+ years of clinical experience treating active patients across West Los Angeles — uses a precise, non-surgical approach to sports injury recovery.

Same-day digital X-rays allow Dr. Karr to diagnose the structural source of your injury at your first visit — eliminating guesswork and ensuring treatment targets the actual problem, not just the symptoms.

Chiropractic adjustments correct spinal and joint misalignments caused by impact, overuse, or compensatory movement patterns that develop after injury. Restoring proper alignment removes nerve interference and allows the surrounding muscles to relax and heal.

Cold laser therapy uses FDA-cleared photobiomodulation to reduce inflammation at the cellular level. It accelerates tissue healing, reduces pain without drugs, and is particularly effective for acute sports injuries in the first 72 hours after injury.

MedX spinal rehabilitation rebuilds the structural support system around the injured area — strengthening the specific muscles that stabilize the spine and joints. This is the step most athletes skip, and it's why injuries recur. Strength imbalances that contributed to the original injury must be corrected or the cycle continues.

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When Should You See a Chiropractor After a Summer Sports Injury?

The short answer: sooner than you think. The inflammatory window — typically 24 to 72 hours after injury — is the most responsive period for treatment. Early intervention reduces recovery time, minimizes scar tissue formation, and significantly lowers the risk of chronic pain developing.

You should call us immediately if you experience:

• Pain that doesn't improve within 48 hours of rest
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in an arm or leg
• Pain that radiates from your back into your hip, leg, or foot
• Severe muscle spasm that limits your range of motion
• Shoulder pain that prevents you from raising your arm overhead

Any of these symptoms may indicate nerve involvement or structural injury that requires clinical evaluation — not continued rest.

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Insurance, Pricing & Getting Started

West Los Angeles Chiropractic® accepts most PPO insurance plans — including Anthem Blue Cross, Cigna, Aetna, and UnitedHealthcare. If you work at a Westside tech company, your employer PPO likely covers chiropractic care. We verify your benefits before your first visit so there are no surprises.

Medicare is accepted for chiropractic care. Workers' Compensation, MedPay, personal injury liens, and CareCredit financing are also welcome.

New patients: our $99 new patient special includes a comprehensive exam, digital X-rays (when clinically indicated), and your first treatment.

Same-day appointments are often available. We are open Saturdays. Our office is on the ground floor with free parking — located at 11340 W. Olympic Blvd., Suite 165, Los Angeles, CA 90064, near the 10 and 405 freeways.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How quickly can chiropractic care help a sports injury?
Many patients experience meaningful pain reduction after the first or second visit. Full recovery timeline depends on injury severity — most acute sports injuries resolve within 4 to 8 visits when treated promptly.

Q: Can I see a chiropractor the same day I'm injured?
Yes. West Los Angeles Chiropractic® offers same-day appointments. Early evaluation and treatment produces the best outcomes — call Betty at 310-914-9400.

Q: Does chiropractic care work for shoulder injuries?
Yes. Chiropractic care is effective for rotator cuff irritation, shoulder impingement, and cervicogenic shoulder pain. Dr. Karr will evaluate the source of the injury and recommend the appropriate treatment protocol.

Q: Is chiropractic care covered by my PPO for a sports injury?
Most PPO plans — including major tech employer plans from Anthem, Cigna, Aetna, and UnitedHealthcare — cover chiropractic care for musculoskeletal injuries. We verify your benefits before your first visit.

Q: What's the difference between resting an injury and treating it?
Rest reduces inflammation temporarily but does not correct structural misalignments, restore joint mobility, or rebuild supporting musculature. Chiropractic care addresses the structural root cause — which is why it produces lasting results where rest alone does not.

Q: Do you treat hiking and trail running injuries?
Yes. We treat ankle sprains, plantar fasciitis, knee pain, hip flexor injuries, and lower back pain from hiking and trail running — all common in West LA's active outdoor community.

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📞 Call Betty: 310-914-9400
🌐 WestLosAngelesChiropractic.com
📍 11340 W. Olympic Blvd., Suite 165, Los Angeles, CA 90064
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West Los Angeles Chiropractic® has served West LA, Santa Monica, Brentwood, Culver City, Westwood, Playa Vista, Beverly Hills, Venice, Mar Vista, and Pacific Palisades since 1989.

Last Updated: June 17, 2026

Herniated Disc? Sciatica? Non-Surgical DRX9000 Spinal Decompression Available in West Los Angeles — West Los Angeles Chiropractic® & LA Spinal Decompression®

Before You Schedule Back Surgery — Read This

West Los Angeles Chiropractic® has served patients in West Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Brentwood, Culver City, Westwood, Beverly Hills, and the entire Westside since 1989. For over 35 years, Dr. Michael C. Karr — a UCLA graduate with advanced postgraduate training in radiology — has helped patients find lasting relief from back pain, sciatica, and disc injuries without drugs or surgery. One of the most powerful tools in our treatment approach is FDA-cleared, non-surgical spinal decompression using the DRX9000 — available right next door at our affiliated practice, Los Angeles Spinal Decompression®.

If you have been told that surgery is your only option for a herniated disc or chronic sciatica, we want you to know: for many patients, it isn't. Non-surgical spinal decompression has helped thousands of patients avoid surgery, reduce or eliminate pain medication, and return to the activities they love — work, exercise, travel, golf, family life.

What Is the DRX9000 and How Does It Work?

The DRX9000 is the gold standard in spinal decompression technology. It uses precise, computer-controlled traction to gently stretch the spine, creating negative pressure within injured intervertebral discs. This negative pressure serves two critical functions: it helps retract herniated disc material away from compressed nerves, and it promotes the flow of oxygen, water, and nutrients into the disc to support natural healing.

The process is completely non-invasive. No anesthesia. No incisions. No recovery period. Patients lie comfortably on the DRX9000 table while the system applies alternating cycles of distraction and relaxation — a pattern specifically designed to prevent the muscle guarding response that limits the effectiveness of standard traction.

Common Conditions Treated With DRX9000 Spinal Decompression

Dr. Karr uses the DRX9000 at Los Angeles Spinal Decompression® to treat patients suffering from:

Herniated and bulging discs in the lumbar (lower back) and cervical (neck) spine — the most common structural cause of sciatica, arm pain, and chronic back pain.

Sciatica and sciatic nerve pain — characterized by shooting pain, numbness, or tingling that radiates from the lower back through the buttocks and down one or both legs. Sciatica is almost always caused by compression of the sciatic nerve at the spinal level — and the DRX9000 addresses that compression directly.

Degenerative disc disease — the gradual thinning and dehydration of intervertebral discs that accompanies aging. Decompression therapy helps restore disc height and reduce the nerve compression that causes chronic pain and stiffness.

Pinched nerves (cervical and lumbar radiculopathy) — nerve compression that causes radiating pain, weakness, or sensory changes in the arms or legs.

Chronic neck and back pain — when conservative chiropractic care alone has not resolved the underlying structural issue, decompression therapy offers a deeper level of structural correction.

How West Los Angeles Chiropractic® and LA Spinal Decompression® Work Together

West Los Angeles Chiropractic® and Los Angeles Spinal Decompression® share the same building at 11340 W. Olympic Blvd. in West Los Angeles — Suite 165 and Suite 160, respectively. This means that as a patient of West Los Angeles Chiropractic®, you have seamless access to the DRX9000 and the full spectrum of spinal decompression care without leaving the building.

Dr. Karr coordinates care between both practices. A patient presenting with back pain at West Los Angeles Chiropractic® who has imaging consistent with a herniated disc can be evaluated for decompression candidacy the same day. Treatment plans often combine chiropractic adjustment, cold laser therapy, muscle stimulation, and MedX rehabilitation with DRX9000 sessions — addressing the full range of musculoskeletal and neurological components involved in disc injuries.

Who Is a Candidate for Spinal Decompression?

The best candidates for DRX9000 spinal decompression are patients with:

Confirmed disc herniation or bulging on MRI or CT imaging. Spinal decompression candidacy begins with imaging — Dr. Karr reviews your MRI personally to determine whether your specific disc levels and degree of herniation are appropriate for decompression therapy.

Sciatica or radicular pain that has not resolved with rest, medication, or conservative chiropractic care alone. When nerve compression is the primary driver of symptoms, decompression therapy offers a structural solution.

Degenerative disc disease with nerve involvement. While decompression cannot reverse advanced degeneration, it can reduce nerve compression and improve function significantly.

Fear of surgery or failed prior surgery. Many patients who have already had spinal surgery but continue to suffer are candidates for decompression therapy. Dr. Karr evaluates post-surgical cases individually.

Patients who are NOT candidates for decompression include those with spinal fractures, significant spinal instability, advanced osteoporosis, active cancer in the spine, or certain types of spinal hardware. Dr. Karr's radiological training allows him to identify contraindications accurately and quickly.

The Integrated Treatment Approach at West Los Angeles Chiropractic®

At West Los Angeles Chiropractic®, we don't treat pain in isolation. We treat the person — their history, their imaging, their lifestyle, and their goals. For patients with disc injuries, our integrated approach typically includes:

In-office digital X-rays for immediate structural assessment on the day of your visit — no outside imaging center required.

Chiropractic adjustment to restore spinal alignment and joint mobility, reducing the mechanical stress on injured discs.

DRX9000 spinal decompression (at LA Spinal Decompression®, Suite 160) to address intradiscal pressure and nerve compression directly.

Cold laser therapy to reduce inflammation and accelerate soft tissue healing around the affected disc level.

MedX spinal rehabilitation to strengthen the stabilizing muscles of the spine, reducing the risk of re-injury.

Muscle stimulation and therapeutic massage to address the chronic muscle tension and guarding that accompanies disc injuries.

Nutritional and lifestyle guidance — Dr. Karr discusses posture, ergonomics, exercise modifications, and supplementation to support long-term spinal health.

Insurance, Financing, and First-Visit Offer

West Los Angeles Chiropractic® accepts Medicare, most PPO insurance plans (Anthem Blue Cross, Cigna, Aetna, UnitedHealthcare), MedPay, Workers' Compensation, approved personal injury liens, CareCredit, and private pay. Our staff verifies your benefits before your first visit.

For patients who are new to our practice and want to explore whether spinal decompression is right for them, the first DRX9000 treatment at Los Angeles Spinal Decompression® is just $149 with an approved MRI report and doctor's evaluation.

For new chiropractic patients at West Los Angeles Chiropractic®, our $99 New Patient Special includes a comprehensive history and examination, digital X-rays if clinically indicated, and your first chiropractic treatment.

Serving West Los Angeles and the Entire Westside for Over 35 Years

West Los Angeles Chiropractic® is located at 11340 W. Olympic Blvd., Suite 165, Los Angeles, CA 90064 — ground floor, free parking, easy access from the 10 and 405 freeways. We serve patients from West Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Brentwood, Beverly Hills, Culver City, Westwood, Century City, Bel Air, Venice, Mar Vista, Playa Vista, Pacific Palisades, West Hollywood, Palms, Cheviot Hills, and Marina del Rey.

We Treat ALL SPINES of People® — from your first visit to your recovery and beyond.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is spinal decompression covered by insurance? Coverage varies by plan. Our staff verifies benefits before your first appointment. We also accept MedPay, Workers' Comp, personal injury liens, and CareCredit.

Do I need an MRI before starting decompression therapy? An MRI is required for the $149 first-visit offer. Dr. Karr reviews your imaging personally to confirm your diagnosis and determine whether decompression is appropriate for your specific disc levels.

How long before I see results? Many patients report improvement within the first few sessions. The full treatment protocol varies based on severity of disc damage and individual response, which Dr. Karr outlines at your evaluation.

Can I receive chiropractic care and spinal decompression at the same time? Yes — and this is often the most effective approach. Dr. Karr coordinates care between West Los Angeles Chiropractic® and Los Angeles Spinal Decompression® to provide a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your condition.

What makes the DRX9000 different from regular traction? The DRX9000 uses a computer-controlled logarithmic decompression curve that prevents muscle guarding — the reflexive muscle contraction that limits the effectiveness of standard traction tables. This allows the DRX9000 to achieve true negative intradiscal pressure that generic traction cannot replicate.

Schedule Your Evaluation Today

Don't let a disc problem determine your future. Find out if non-surgical spinal decompression can help — before considering surgery.

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Page last updated: June 2026

Tech Neck: Why West LA's Tech Professionals Are at High Risk — And What to Do About It

Tech Neck: Why West LA's Tech Professionals Are at High Risk — And What to Do About It

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What Is Tech Neck?

Tech neck is a term used to describe the forward head posture and cervical spine stress that develops from prolonged use of screens — computers, phones, tablets, and monitors. It is not just muscle soreness. It is a progressive spinal condition that, left untreated, causes structural damage to the discs, joints, and nerves of the cervical spine.

The biomechanics are straightforward. An adult human head weighs approximately 10 to 12 pounds in neutral position. For every inch the head moves forward from that neutral position, the effective load on the cervical spine increases by roughly 10 pounds. A person working with their head tilted forward at a 45-degree angle — a common working posture — places approximately 49 pounds of force on the neck. At 60 degrees of forward tilt, that load reaches 60 pounds.

Most people do this for 8 to 12 hours a day.

Who Is at Risk?

West Los Angeles has one of the highest concentrations of screen-dependent professionals in the country. Engineers, developers, designers, producers, and remote workers at companies including Google, Apple, Amazon, Meta, Tesla, Yahoo, Riot Games, and EA Sports — and throughout the tech and entertainment campuses of Playa Vista and Culver City — spend the majority of their working hours in positions that place sustained load on the cervical spine.

Add commute time, phone use, and evening screen time, and many West LA professionals are accumulating 10 to 14 hours of cumulative forward head posture daily.

What Are the Symptoms of Tech Neck?

Tech neck presents differently depending on the stage of progression. Early-stage symptoms are often dismissed as normal fatigue or stress:

Chronic neck stiffness and soreness Upper back and shoulder tension Tension headaches, often beginning at the base of the skull Jaw tightness and TMJ symptoms Difficulty concentrating or eye strain

As the condition progresses without treatment, more serious symptoms emerge:

Herniated or bulging cervical discs Pinched nerves causing radiating pain into the arms and hands Numbness and tingling in the fingers Reduced cervical range of motion Accelerated degenerative disc disease

Many patients who present at West Los Angeles Chiropractic® with severe disc herniations, chronic sciatica, or significant nerve compression trace the origin of their condition to years of untreated tech neck.

How Does Chiropractic Care Treat Tech Neck?

Dr. Michael C. Karr, D.C., a UCLA graduate with a background in kinesiology and biomechanics, has treated tech neck and its downstream effects in West LA patients since 1989. Treatment at West Los Angeles Chiropractic® begins with a thorough evaluation including in-office digital X-rays to assess the degree of forward head posture, disc health, and any structural changes to the cervical spine.

Care plans are individualized but typically include a combination of the following:

Targeted chiropractic adjustments to restore cervical alignment and reduce nerve pressure. Gentle, precise adjustments address the specific vertebral segments affected by forward head posture.

Non-surgical spinal decompression on the FDA-cleared DRX9000 for patients whose tech neck has progressed to disc herniation or significant nerve compression. Decompression reduces intradiscal pressure, promotes disc rehydration, and creates the conditions for natural healing.

Class 3 Cold Laser Therapy to reduce inflammation in soft tissues, accelerate healing of strained muscles and ligaments, and address the chronic inflammatory state that develops in untreated cervical conditions.

MedX Spinal Rehabilitation to strengthen the deep cervical stabilizers and postural muscles that have weakened from sustained forward head positioning. Strengthening these muscles is essential for long-term correction.

Postural education and workplace ergonomics guidance to address the root cause of the condition and prevent recurrence.

How Long Does Recovery Take?

Recovery depends on the duration and severity of the condition. Patients who present early — within the first year of symptoms — typically respond well and quickly. Patients with long-standing tech neck involving disc degeneration or herniation require a more comprehensive course of care.

The most important factor is not waiting. Tech neck is a progressive condition. Each year of untreated forward head posture accelerates the degenerative process. The structural changes that occur over years of tech neck cannot always be fully reversed — but they can be halted, and significant functional improvement is achievable at any stage.

Can Tech Neck Be Prevented?

Yes — with consistent attention to posture and proactive care. Practical steps include:

Positioning your monitor at eye level so the screen is directly in front of your gaze rather than below it Taking a standing or movement break every 30 to 45 minutes Keeping your phone at eye level rather than looking down at it in your lap Sleeping with a cervical support pillow that maintains neutral neck alignment Receiving regular chiropractic maintenance care to keep the cervical spine aligned as occupational demands continue

Schedule Your Tech Neck Evaluation

West Los Angeles Chiropractic® is located at 11340 W. Olympic Blvd., Suite 165, Los Angeles, CA 90064 — near the 10 and 405 freeways, one block west of the 405 at Olympic and Sawtelle. We serve patients from West LA, Santa Monica, Brentwood, Venice, Culver City, Westwood, Playa Vista, Pacific Palisades, Bel Air, and Mar Vista.

New patients: $99 first visit — includes exam, two digital X-rays, and treatment.

Call Betty at 310-914-9400 to schedule your evaluation. WestLosAngelesChiropractic.com

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