Slipped disc Dr Rob Hicks A prolapsed or herniated disc - more commonly known as a slipped disc - is a common back complaint. But who's most at risk, what are the symptoms and how can you avoid putting your back under such strain?

In this article

What is it? What are the symptoms?

What causes it? What's the treatment?

Advice and support

The shock-absorbing discs in the spine are made up of a strong outer fibrous coat that contains soft gel-like material. A prolapsed disc occurs when the gel-like material pushes out from between the bones of the spine (vertebrae). A herniated disc occurs when the outer coat ruptures.

Pain is caused when the disc puts pressure on the surrounding nerves or spinal cord.

A slipped disc is most common in the lower back, but it can also occur in the neck and upper back.

It's most likely to occur between the ages of 25 and 45, and is slightly more common in men.

Symptoms may occur suddenly or build up gradually over a number of weeks

Symptoms may occur suddenly or build up gradually over a number of weeks. They may include difficulty moving, muscle spasm, aching pain and stiffness in the affected area.

If the disc presses on a nerve, weakness, severe pain, numbness or tingling may occur in the leg (sciatica) or arm, depending on where in the spine the slipped disc has occurred.

Impaired bowel or bladder function can indicate pressure on the spinal cord. If these symptoms arise, urgent medical advice is needed.

Incorrect lifting of objects and being overweight increase the risk of a slipped disc occurring.

Therefore, keeping to an ideal weight, exercising the back muscles regularly and lifting objects correctly can help you avoid such an injury.

Treatment may include avoiding further stress on the back by modifying physical activities, painkillers, physiotherapy or osteopathy.

Sometimes traction, anaesthetic injections or surgery is recommended.

BackCare

Tel: 0845 130 2704
Website: www.backcare.org.uk

The Spinal Foundation

Tel: 01260 296346
Website: www.spinal-foundation.org

This article was last medically reviewed by Dr Rob Hicks in July 2006.