What is a slipped disc?
A slipped disc (herniated disc) happens when the soft inner core of a spinal disc protrudes through a tear in the outer layer, pressing on nerves and causing pain or numbness in the affected area.
The spine uses discs as shock absorbers between vertebrae. Each disc has a tough outer layer (annulus fibrosus) surrounding a gel-like center (nucleus pulposus). When the outer layer develops a tear or weak spot, the inner material can push through and bulge outward. If that bulge contacts a nerve root exiting the spine, it triggers inflammation and pain in the area that nerve serves.
A slipped disc differs from general back strain because the damage is structural. Pain often radiates down the leg (sciatica) if a lumbar disc is affected, or into the arm if a cervical disc ruptures. Numbness, tingling, or weakness may accompany the pain depending on which nerve is compressed.
Slipped discs develop gradually through wear and tear, sudden lifting injuries, or prolonged poor posture. Not all herniated discs cause symptoms. Some people have a protruding disc on imaging but feel no pain, while others experience severe symptoms from minimal disc material pressing on a sensitive nerve.
Chiropractors evaluate disc problems through examination and imaging to determine if conservative care like spinal manipulation, flexion-distraction therapy, or postural correction can reduce pressure on the nerve. Severe cases with progressive neurological loss may require imaging and specialist referral. Finding a chiropractor experienced in disc-related conditions helps ensure proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.