what is a slipped disc

A slipped disc, also known as a herniated disc, is a problem with one of the rubbery cushions, called disks, that sit between the bones that stack to make the spine. These disks have a soft jelly-like center or nucleus that is encased by a tougher rubbery exterior. Sometimes the exterior of these rubbery disks can tear, and the soft inside slips out, resulting in a herniated disk. This disk injury can irritate nearby nerves causing pain, numbness, or weakness in an arm or a leg. A herniated disc in the lower back sometimes causes pain at the site of the actual rupture, but more commonly it causes pain, weakness, and numbness in the buttocks, legs, or feet because it’s pressing on the nerve that connects to those areas. Most people with a slipped disk never experience symptoms, and surgery is rarely required to fix the problem. Nonetheless, there are a range of treatments available to help those who suffer pain or discomfort from a herniated disk, including watching your movement, taking pain medication, and doing physical therapy.