What is a Slipped Disc?

A "slipped disc" or using the proper terminology a herniated disc. This is a common injury that causes neck pain and low back pain.

Slipped discs are a common cause of back pain.

Slipped discs can be caused from wear and tear in the vertebrae, or after heavy lifting, often with twisting or during other activities. The pain is often initially severe locally, and then radiates into the leg, if from a low back disc or if a neck vertebrae, the pain will radiate down the arm.

Discs act like the shock absorbers between the vertebrae, excessive pressure on the disc can cause the central softer part, known as the nucleus to be squeezed out causing a tear in the disc capsule. This prolapsed part of the disc can compress against the adjacent nerve root, and occasionally the spinal cord causing neurological symptoms.