Overview
A slipped disc happens when one of the soft cushions between the bones of the spine bulges or breaks open and presses on a nearby nerve. It most often affects the lower back and can cause back pain along with pain, tingling or weakness running down a leg or arm. It is a common cause of back and nerve pain in adults. Most slipped discs improve over weeks with movement, physiotherapy and pain relief; only a few with severe nerve pressure need surgery.
Symptoms
- Back or neck pain, sometimes severe
- Pain, tingling or numbness spreading into a leg or arm
- Weakness in the affected limb
- Pain worse on bending, coughing or sneezing
- Muscle spasm around the spine
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if leg or arm pain, tingling or weakness lasts more than a few weeks, and urgently for the emergency warning signs below.
Emergency — call 108 or go to the nearest hospital
- Numbness around the private parts, loss of control over urine or stools, or severe weakness in both legs — go to a hospital immediately
Causes
Age-related wear of the discs, sudden heavy lifting or twisting, poor posture, and being overweight.