herniated

A herniated disc, commonly referred to as a herniated disk, herniation, or slipped disc, is a condition in which the nucleus pulposus protrudes through a tear in the annulus fibrosus of an intervertebral disc. The protruding material can irritate or compress nearby nerves, causing pain, numbness, or weakness.

Most herniations occur in the lumbar spine (lower back) and cervical spine (neck). Risk factors include aging with disc degeneration, repetitive lifting or twisting, acute injury, obesity, and genetics.

Symptoms vary. Many people have no symptoms. When symptomatic, signs depend on the location and whether nerve roots are affected. Common features include leg pain (sciatica) if lumbar, arm pain if cervical, plus numbness, tingling, or weakness in the affected leg or arm. Severe compression can cause loss of bowel or bladder control (cauda equina syndrome) – a medical emergency.

Diagnosis relies on history and exam, supported by imaging if needed. MRI is often used to visualize disc material and nerve compression; CT or X-ray can be used in some cases. Nerve tests may be indicated.

Treatment is typically conservative at first. Many herniations improve within weeks to months with physical therapy, activity modification, analgesics (such as NSAIDs), and, if appropriate, epidural steroid injections. Most people recover without surgery. Surgery, usually a microdiscectomy or removal of the affected disc portion, is considered for persistent pain, progressive weakness, or cauda equina syndrome.

Prevention focuses on maintaining spine health with regular exercise, proper lifting techniques, posture, and core strengthening. The term “herniated” emphasizes protrusion of disc material, not a complete rupture in all cases.