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Herniated (Slipped) Disc
A herniated disc happens when the soft centre of a spinal disc bulges out and presses on a nearby nerve, causing back or neck pain that can travel into an arm or leg. Most improve without surgery.
Causes & risk factors
- Age-related wear of the discs
- Heavy or awkward lifting
- Sudden strain or injury
- Repetitive bending or twisting
- Being overweight
- Smoking (weakens discs)
Common symptoms
- Back pain
- Neck pain
- Pain radiating into an arm or leg
- Numbness or tingling
- Muscle weakness
- Pain worse with coughing or bending
Tests & diagnosis
Treatment & management
- Staying gently active and avoiding prolonged bed rest
- Simple pain relief and nerve-pain medicine as needed
- Physiotherapy and targeted exercises
- Steroid injections in some cases
- Surgery only if symptoms are severe or persistent
When to see a doctor urgently
- Numbness around the back passage or genitals, or new bladder or bowel problems — call your local emergency number now (possible cauda equina)
- Worsening weakness in an arm or leg
- Severe pain not improving after a few weeks
- Back pain with fever, weight loss or after a serious injury
Frequently asked questions
Do I need surgery for a slipped disc?
Usually not. Most herniated discs settle within weeks with activity, pain relief and physiotherapy. Surgery is considered for severe or persistent nerve symptoms or red-flag signs.
What is cauda equina and why does it matter?
It is rare pressure on the lowest spinal nerves, causing numbness around the back passage or loss of bladder or bowel control. This is an emergency needing immediate care to prevent permanent damage.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.