Herniated (Slipped) Disc

The spinal column consists of segments of bone (vertebral bodies) with discs sitting inbetween them (acting like shock absorbers).  Sometimes, the structure of the discs may fail and a fragment of the disc move out of place and trap a nerve. 

A herniated (or slipped) disc is a common and usually self limiting condition that can affect any part of the spine, resulting in severe pain and other problems in the arms or legs.  A slipped disc in the lumbar spine is the most common cause of sciatica.  It is usually a result of wear and tear over years but can also result from a traumatic event such as lifting a heavy object improperly.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms vary depending on the location and size of the disc herniation.  Many disc herniations cause no symptoms at all, but in some instances, they can cause severe pain, numbness, tingling and even weakness.  Disc herniations in the neck tend to cause arm symptoms whilst those in the lower back result in leg symptoms.  Progressive weakness and numbness are serious symptoms which may reflect permanent nerve damage.  If this is the case, then you should make an appointment to see a specialist as soon as possible.

Treatments

A herniated disc may be treated with careful observation, pain-relieving medications, exercise therapy and corticosteroid injections (nerve root injection). If these methods fail, the disc may need to be treated with a surgical procedure (discectomy).