A herniated disc, which is also sometimes referred to as a slipped or ruptured disc, is a common cause of back pain. The disc, which is a soft cushion between vertebrae, is ruptured and presses on the nerve, typically resulting in pain, numbness, and/or tingling in the arms or legs.
Disc ruptures are most common in adults between the ages of 20 and 60. (Patients over 60 are more likely to have an arthritic condition called spinal stenosis that can present with similar symptoms).
Most herniated discs occur in the lumbar spine (low back) and are less frequent in the cervical spine (neck).
Symptoms
The most common symptom is a sharp, radiating pain that extends down an arm or a leg. There can also be numbness, tingling, and/or possible motor weakness. In some cases, a patient may have a previous history of episodes of localized low back pain.
Treatment
The vast majority of patients with a herniated disc do not require surgery. Most respond well to various non-operative methods such as the use of anti-inflammatory drugs.