What is a herniated disc, or slipped disc?
Spinal discs are the cushions or “shock absorbers” between the spinal bones or vertebrae which if damaged can cause a herniated disc. The discs also allow for motion in the spine. The disc is made of a tough outer border and a softer gelatinous center kind of like a jelly donut. When the tough outer border becomes torn or cracked some of the softer center called the nucleus can be pushed out causing a bulge or herniation. This is what is typically referred to as a herniated disc. Other terms that are sometimes used include a pinched nerve in the neck or back, a trapped nerve or a disc rupture to spinal decompression. Symptoms of a herniated disc The symptoms associated with a herniated disc depend on what direction the disc herniates and what other tissue the herniated disc places pressure on. In some cases a herniated disc will create little or no pain at all. The various symptoms of a herniated disc depend on which pain sensitive tissue the disc puts pressure on and includ...