Slipped Disc

When the soft centre of a spinal disc pushes through its outer layer and presses on nearby nerves, causing back pain and leg or arm pain.

BackSpineLast updated: 21 October 2026

Quick Summary

Primary Symptoms

Back or neck pain, pain spreading to the leg or arm, numbness, tingling and muscle weakness.

Common Treatments

Staying active, pain relief and physiotherapy; injections or surgery if symptoms persist.

Risk Factors

Age-related disc wear, heavy lifting, twisting injuries, obesity and smoking.

OverviewSymptomsCausesTreatmentFAQ

Overview

Discs sit between the bones of the spine and act as cushions. A slipped (herniated) disc often affects the lower back and causes sciatica.

Most improve within six weeks without surgery.

Symptoms

Back or neck pain

Often worse with sitting or bending.

Shooting leg or arm pain

Following the nerve.

Numbness and tingling

In the limb.

Emergency signs

Loss of bladder or bowel control: call 112.

Causes & Risk Factors

Biological Causes

Wear or injury causes the disc's inner gel to bulge and press on nerves.

Key Risk Factors

  • Age Discs lose water and weaken with age.
  • Lifting Heavy lifting with a bent back and twisting.
  • Weight and smoking Increase disc stress and wear.

Management & Treatment

01. Stay active

Gentle activity within comfort.

02. Medicines

Painkillers and nerve pain medicines.

03. Physiotherapy, injections or surgery

For persistent symptoms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I need surgery?
Most people don't.
How is it diagnosed?
From symptoms and examination; MRI if needed.

Sources and further reading

Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.