Herniated Disc

Herniated Disc: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment Options

Relief from Back and Neck Pain Starts with the Right Diagnosis

What Is a Herniated Disc?

A herniated disc (also called a slipped or ruptured disc) occurs when the soft, gel-like center of a spinal disc bulges out through a tear in its outer shell. This can irritate or compress nearby nerves, leading to pain, weakness, or numbness in the back, legs, or arms. Discs act as cushions between the vertebrae of the spine. When one becomes damaged, it disrupts movement and can severely impact quality of life.

Quick Facts & Statistics

• 1–3% of people are affected by symptomatic lumbar disc herniation annually.
• 95% of lumbar disc herniations occur at L4-L5 or L5-S1.
• Most common in adults aged 30–50.
• 75% of patients improve without surgery.
• Up to 20% of people may have herniated discs on MRI without symptoms.

Common Causes

• Age-related wear & tear (disc degeneration)
• Improper lifting techniques
• Repetitive strain from work or sports
• Injury or trauma
• Sedentary lifestyle & poor posture
• Genetic predisposition
• Obesity and excess weight on the spine

Symptoms to Watch For

A herniated disc can happen in the neck (cervical), mid-back (thoracic), or lower back (lumbar). Symptoms vary by location:

Lumbar Disc Herniation (Lower Back)

• Lower back pain
• Sciatica: sharp, shooting pain down one leg
• Numbness or tingling in the leg or foot
• Muscle weakness in the leg

Cervical Disc Herniation (Neck)

• Neck pain
• Pain radiating into shoulders or arms
• Numbness or tingling in arms or hands
• Arm weakness

Seek Emergency Care If:

• Loss of bladder or bowel control
• Progressive leg weakness
• Severe numbness in the groin area (possible cauda equina syndrome)

How It’s Diagnosed

A spine specialist may recommend:

• Physical Examination: Reflex, muscle strength, and sensation tests
• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Best method to visualize disc herniation
• CT Scan or X-ray: To assess spine structure and alignment
• EMG (Electromyography): Measures nerve function and damage

reatment Options for Herniated Disc

Most herniated discs improve without surgery. Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and neurological findings.

Non-Surgical (Conservative) Treatments

Surgical Treatments (When Needed)

Did you know? Microdiscectomy has a success rate of 80–95% for relieving leg pain caused by nerve compression.

Recovery and Prognosis

• Mild cases resolve in 6–12 weeks with conservative care.
• Post-surgical recovery ranges from 2–6 weeks, with most patients returning to normal activities shortly after.
• Physical therapy and maintaining proper posture are key to long-term success and preventing recurrence.

Living Well After a Herniated Disc

Prevention Tips:

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Exercise regularly (especially core strengthening)
• Use proper lifting techniques
• Avoid prolonged sitting
• Stay active with low-impact movement (e.g., swimming, walking, yoga)