A herniated disc, sometimes referred to as a slipped disc or ruptured disc, is a condition that affects the cushions that sit between the spinal vertebrae. These cushions, or discs, are composed of a soft, jelly-like substance that sits within an outer ring of tougher material. A herniated disc occurs when this jelly-like substance pushes or leaks out through a tear in the outer ring.

Risk Factors for Herniated Discs

• Age: gradual deterioration of spinal discs over time makes older adults more prone to herniation.
• Weight: excess weight places more stress on the spine and increases chances of herniation.
• Occupation: people who must do a lot of lifting or repetitive activities that involve the back or spine are at a higher risk for a herniated disc.

Herniated Disc Symptoms

Symptoms of this condition occur because the jelly-like substance that leaks out from the center of the disc puts pressure on nearby nerves, irritating them. However, some people may not experience any symptoms from a herniated disc.

Symptoms will depend on the location of the herniation. A herniated disc can occur in the lumbar spine (lower back) or the cervical spine (neck). The severity of symptoms depends on how much pressure the herniation is exerting on nearby nerves.

Symptoms of herniation in the cervical spine may include:

• Burning pain in the shoulders, neck or arms
• Weakness in one arm
• Tingling or numbness in one arm

Symptoms of herniation in the lumbar spine may include:

• Back pain
• Weakness in the leg or foot
• Tingling or numbness in the leg or foot

The back pain associated with a herniated disc in the lumbar spine often radiates over the buttocks and down one leg, a condition known as sciatica. Some people may experience this pain in both legs.

Is it a Herniated Disc or Something Else?

Lower back and neck pain are common conditions that can have many causes. A herniated disc is only one possible cause for back or neck pain. In order to diagnose a herniated disc, a doctor will conduct a physical exam to determine what part of the spine is affected. They may also employ imaging technology such an X-Ray, MRI, or CT scan to visualize the affected disc.

Relieving Herniated Disc Symptoms

Often symptoms of a herniated disc subside with conservative treatment consisting of rest, avoiding any activity that exacerbates symptoms, and pain medication. If rest is not enough to relieve symptoms and heal the herniated disc, physical therapy can be a helpful solution.

Some people may find some relief from safely practiced alternative medicine such as chiropractic spinal manipulation, acupuncture, massage, or yoga.

In some cases, surgery may be required if conservative treatment does not resolve the issue and severe symptoms such as numbness, decreased mobility, or impaired bowel or bladder control persist.

Top 5 Routes for "Herniated Disc Symptoms"

1. Mayoclinic.org This site provides a general overview of herniated discs including symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment.
2. Orthoinfo.aaos.org This article from the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons goes over anatomy, symptoms, and causes of herniated discs, and provides detailed explanations of surgical and nonsurgical treatment options.
3. Spine-health.com This article provides an in-depth overview of symptoms that can occur with herniated discs at different locations in the spine.
4. Familydoctor.org This site provides an overview of herniated discs and discusses exercises and posture changes that can help relieve symptoms.
5. Spineuniverse.com This article suggests some alternative and complementary medicine treatment options that can be helpful for relieving symptoms caused by a herniated disc.