What is a Herniated Disc and How Does It Affect Your Spine?

What is a Herniated Disc?

A herniated disc, also called a slipped disc or spinal disc herniation, is a common cause of back pain. In your spine, there are small, soft discs between the bones. These discs act like cushions. Sometimes, a disc can break open or bulge out. When this happens, it is called a herniated disc. This condition can press on nerves and cause pain, numbness, or weakness. Many people experience herniated discs, especially as they get older. According to the CDC, back pain is one of the leading reasons people visit doctors.

Common Symptoms of a Herniated Disc

Not everyone with a herniated disc has symptoms. However, many people notice problems. For example, you may feel pain in your back or neck. Sometimes, the pain spreads to your arms or legs. In addition, you might notice:

Numbness or tingling in your arms or legs

Weakness in certain muscles

Pain that gets worse when you move, cough, or sneeze

Difficulty standing or walking for long periods

Usually, symptoms depend on where the herniated disc is located. For instance, a disc in your lower back may cause leg pain, while a disc in your neck can affect your arms.

Causes and Risk Factors

There are several reasons why a herniated disc can happen. Most often, discs wear down with age. This process is called disc degeneration. Over time, the discs lose water and become less flexible. As a result, they are more likely to tear or rupture. Other causes and risk factors include:

Lifting heavy objects the wrong way

Sudden twisting or turning movements

Being overweight, which puts extra stress on your spine

Repetitive activities that strain your back

Genetics, since some people are more likely to develop disc problems

Smoking, which can reduce blood flow to the discs

Even though anyone can get a herniated disc, it is more common in people aged 30 to 50.

Diagnosis Methods

If you have back pain or other symptoms, your doctor will ask about your health history. Next, they will do a physical exam. During the exam, your doctor may check your reflexes, muscle strength, and feeling in your arms or legs. Sometimes, more tests are needed. These may include:

MRI scan: Shows detailed images of your spine and discs

CT scan: Gives a clear picture of your bones and discs

X-rays: Help rule out other causes of pain

Nerve tests: Check how well your nerves are working

With these tests, your doctor can find out if you have a herniated disc and where it is located.

Treatment Options for Herniated Disc

Treatment for a herniated disc depends on your symptoms and how severe they are. In many cases, people get better with simple care at home. For example, you can:

Rest for a short time, but stay active as much as possible

Use ice or heat packs to ease pain

Take over-the-counter pain medicine, like acetaminophen or ibuprofen

Try gentle stretching or physical therapy exercises

Sometimes, your doctor may suggest stronger treatments. These can include:

Prescription pain medicine or muscle relaxants

Physical therapy with a trained specialist

Epidural steroid injections to reduce swelling

Surgery, if other treatments do not help or if you have severe symptoms

Most people do not need surgery. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, about 90% of people improve without surgery.

Prevention Tips

While you cannot always prevent a herniated disc, you can lower your risk. Here are some helpful tips:

Exercise regularly to keep your back and core muscles strong

Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on your spine

Use proper lifting techniques—bend your knees, not your back

Take breaks if you sit or stand for long periods

Quit smoking to improve disc health

By following these steps, you can help protect your spine and lower your chance of disc problems.

When to See a Doctor

Sometimes, back pain goes away on its own. However, you should see a doctor if:

Your pain lasts longer than a few weeks

You have numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arms or legs

You have trouble controlling your bladder or bowels

Your pain is severe or gets worse over time

Early treatment can help prevent more serious problems. Therefore, do not wait if you have these symptoms.

In summary, a herniated disc is a common cause of back pain. With the right care, most people feel better. Consult an orthopedic specialist for personalized advice about herniated disc symptoms or treatment.