A slipped disc — more accurately called a herniated disc — happens when the soft inner core of a spinal disc pushes through its outer ring and presses on a nearby nerve. It can cause back pain, leg or arm pain (sciatica or radiculopathy), tingling and, in some cases, weakness.
Symptoms of a slipped disc
Common symptoms include lower back pain that radiates into the buttock and leg, neck pain that radiates into the arm, tingling or numbness in a specific area, and weakness in muscles served by the affected nerve. Warning signs — such as severe progressive weakness, foot drop or any change in bladder or bowel control — require urgent evaluation.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a careful clinical history and examination, supported by MRI imaging. MRI shows the exact level, size and direction of the herniation and confirms which nerve is involved. Sometimes additional tests (nerve conduction studies, focused X-rays) are used to complete the picture.
Non-surgical care
Most slipped discs improve with non-surgical treatment: activity modification, targeted physiotherapy, posture and ergonomic changes, and appropriate pain relief. A structured plan tailored to your job and lifestyle is usually the first step, and many patients do not need surgery.
When surgery is considered
Surgery — most often endoscopic or microscopic discectomy — is considered when symptoms persist despite reasonable non-surgical care, or when there are neurological signs such as progressive weakness. The specific technique is chosen based on the disc's size, location and your overall picture.