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Slip Disc: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment & Management

slipped disc

By Dr. Saijyot Raut, Consultant Spine Surgeon at One Spine 
08/11/2025 | 7 Min read

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What is a Slip Disc?

We receive many calls/inquiries at our clinic where patients are constantly talking about feeling numbness and tingling in the leg and lower back pain. I can’t bend and sleep properly.

It means you may have a slipped disc issue, also known as a herniated disc or disc bulge.

It is a condition where the soft, jelly like inner material of the spinal disc located between the bones of your spine (vertebrae) bulges or tears, gets pushed out and puts pressure on adjacent nerves. It triggers nerve related symptoms, like sciatica, nerve compression, weakness, tingling and numbness in the legs.

What are the Symptoms of Slip Disc

Most herniated discs occur in the lower back but can also develop in the neck. The symptoms experienced depend on the location of the herniated disc and whether it is pressing on nearby nerves. Generally herniated discs affect one side of the body.

Symptoms of a Slip Disc

1. Pain in the Arms or Legs:

  • Lower Back Herniation: If a herniated disc is in your lower back you might feel pain that spreads from your lower back to your buttocks, thighs, and calves. The pain can also spread to certain parts of the foot, depending on which nerves are affected. Common descriptions of this pain include a deep, aching sensation or sharp discomfort.
 
  • Neck (Cervical) Herniation: A herniated disc in the neck typically causes pain primarily in the shoulder and arm. This pain can be particularly intense and may radiate down the arm, sometimes reaching the hand and fingers. Many patients report that movements like coughing, sneezing or certain neck positions can make the pain worse. This pain is often sharp, burning or tingling.

2. Tingling or Numbness:

Individuals with herniated discs frequently experience numbness or tingling in the areas served by the affected nerves. This sensation can feel like pins and needles and may occur in the arms, hands, legs or feet, depending on the location of the herniation. This can lead to decreased sensation in the affected areas, impacting daily activities.

3. Muscle Weakness:

Muscles that are innervated by the affected nerves may become weak. This weakness can lead to difficulties in performing everyday tasks, such as lifting objects or maintaining balance. You may find yourself stumbling or unable to hold items securely, which can be frustrating and concerning.

What Causes Herniated disc

Herniated discs most commonly result from a gradual process known as disc degeneration, which is primarily age related wear and tear. As individuals age, the spinal discs lose hydration and elasticity, making them less flexible and more susceptible to tearing or rupturing even from minor strains or twists.

Herniated discs usually occur due to disc degeneration, mainly caused by age related wear and tear. As people get older, the spinal discs lose moisture and flexibility, which makes them less adaptable and more prone to tearing or rupturing, even from small strains or twists.

Here are some common causes of Herniated discs

  • Age related changes: As we age spinal discs lose water and become less flexible which increases the risk of tears or ruptures.
  • Heavy lifting: lifting heavy weight with improper technique can place too much pressure on your spinal discs.
  • Injury or trauma: A sudden fall accident or direct impact can cause a disc to herniate.
  • Genetics: Genetic factors can play a role in the predisposition to developing a herniated disc. If there is a family history of spinal issues individuals may be more susceptible to similar problems.
  • Obesity: Carrying excess body weight places additional stress on the discs in the lower back. This added pressure can contribute to disc degeneration and increase the risk of herniation
  • Smoking: Smoking has been shown to reduce the oxygen supply to spinal discs, which can accelerate their degeneration. The harmful substances in cigarettes may also interfere with the body’s ability to heal and repair, further increasing the risk of herniation.

Prevention of Herniated discs

Taking proactive steps can significantly reduce chances of getting a herniated disc. Here are several effective strategies to help protect your spinal health:

1. Regular Exercise

  1. Exercise is one of the most effective ways to protect your spine and prevent slipped disc related pain. Regular exercise can strengthens the muscles that support your back, particularly your core muscles including your abdomen, hips and lower back. A strong core helps maintain proper spinal alignment, reduces unnecessary pressure on the discs and lowers the risk of herniation.

Tip: Always warm up before exercising and consult a physiotherapist or spine specialist to learn which exercises are safe and beneficial for your specific condition. Consistency is key, gentle, regular activity is far more effective than occasional intense workouts.

2. Maintain Good Posture

Practising proper posture can help alleviate pressure on the spine and discs. When sitting for extended periods, ensure your back is straight and aligned with your shoulders. Use ergonomic chairs and keep your feet flat on the ground. When lifting heavy objects, always use your legs for power rather than your back. Bend at the knees, keep the object close to your body, and avoid twisting while lifting

Keeping a good posture is one of the simplest ways to protect your spine and prevent slipped disc pain. These tips will help you for Maintain Good Posture

  • Keep your spine aligned: Sit and stand upright to reduce pressure on your spinal discs and prevent slipped disc related pain.

  • Use proper back support: Choose a chair with lumbar support, keep your feet flat and avoid slouching during long sitting hours.

  • Make small ergonomic adjustments: Position your screen at eye level and keep your shoulders relaxed to ease strain on the neck and back.

  • Move regularly: Take short breaks every 30 to 45 minutes to stand, stretch, or walk especially if you spend long hours sitting

  • Get expert advice: Consult a physiotherapist or spine specialist for personalized posture correction and strengthening exercises.

3. Achieve and Maintain a Healthy Weight:

Carrying excess weight can increase the strain on the spine and discs, making them more vulnerable to injury. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can significantly reduce this risk. Consider consulting with a healthcare provider or nutritionist to develop a personalized plan if needed.

4. Quit Smoking

Smoking and the use of tobacco products have been linked to increased risks of disc degeneration and herniation. Nicotine restricts blood flow to the discs, impairing their ability to heal and regenerate. Quitting smoking can improve overall health and significantly benefit spinal health.

By implementing these preventive measures, you can help safeguard your spine and reduce the likelihood of developing a herniated disc. Taking care of your body today can lead to a healthier and more active tomorrow.

Slip Disc Treatment Options

As a spine specialist, one of the most common questions I hear from patients is, Do I really need surgery for a slip disc?

The reassuring answer is in most cases, surgery is not the first option. Because 90% of the time, it can be treated by non surgical methods, depending upon the severity of symptoms and how much the condition affects your daily life. 

In most of the cases the spine specialist recommend for the conservative or non surgical methods that are effective in reducing pain and improving mobility

Hardly 5 to 10% of cases are recommended for the surgery due to unbearable pain, unable to do routine activity, numbness or weakness, trouble in standing or walking, loss of bladder or bowel control

1. Slip Disc can be Treated with Non Surgical Treatment

  • Medications: usually the treatment begins with anti inflammatory medicines or muscle relaxants to reduce pain and stiffness.

     

  • Physiotherapy: In my clinical experience, this is the most important part of recovery. Specific exercises strengthen the back muscles, improve posture and take pressure off the herniated disc. Many patients notice significant improvement within 4 to 6 weeks.

     

  • Lifestyle Modifications: spine specialists often explain to patients that simple changes like sitting ergonomically, avoiding heavy lifts with poor posture and practicing correct posture can prevent worsening of the condition.

     

  • Spinal Injections: after completing physiotherapy session if patient still suffering pain then doctor may suggest Injections ( nerve root Injections ) non surgical option. This is safe and reduces inflammation around the nerve and provides relief

2. Surgical Treatments

If you are diagnosed with a slipped disc and the doctor recommends surgery, first understand when it is necessary and at what stage it’s required. explained by one of the best spine specialists in Mumbai

  • Microscopic discectomy: Microdiscectomy, which is also called micro decompression. It’s a minimally invasive surgical procedure that involves removing bulged or herniated discs from the spine region. Microdiscectomy is used for patients with a herniated disc that causes significant symptoms such as numbness, weakness and tingling sensations in the lower back, buttocks and leg can be treated with the microdiscectomy method. 

  • Decompressive laminectomy: Decompressive laminectomy is a common surgical procedure designed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. This pressure is often caused by conditions such as spinal stenosis, herniated discs, bone spurs or age related degeneration of the spine. Doctors usually recommend a decompressive laminectomy when conservative treatments such as physiotherapy, medications or spinal injections no longer provide relief. This surgical method is performed to reduce nerve compression, ease pain and help patients regain mobility and quality of life.

  • Total disc replacement: In this procedure the damaged intervertebral disc is carefully removed and replaced with a medical grade artificial disc made of metal and medical grade plastic. This artificial disc works like the natural cushioning and movement of a healthy disc. It helps the spine to bend, twist, and move more easily after healing.

  • Instrumented spinal fusion: spinal fusion involves joining two or more vertebrae so they heal into a single, solid bone. The term instrumented refers to the use of medical implants such as screws, rods, plates or cages to hold the bones in place while they fuse naturally. These implants act like an internal support system, maintaining correct spinal alignment and improving long term stability.

  • Percutaneous endoscopic techniques: The spine specialist inserts a thin, flexible tube with a tiny camera (endoscope) through a small incision, usually less than a centimetre. The endoscope shows a clear, magnified view of the problem area on a monitor so the surgeon can carefully remove damaged disc or bone spurs without affecting nearby muscles or ligaments. Because the incision is so small, patients typically have less bleeding, a lower    chance of infection, and faster recovery. This method is often done using local anaesthesia, which helps patients get back to their normal routines sooner.
  • Anterior lumbar interbody fusion: Anterior lumbar interbody fusion is also known as ALIF.  It is a type of spinal fusion surgery where the damaged disc between the lumbar vertebrae is removed and replaced with a specially designed implant. This implant restores the normal height and alignment of the spine, while a bone graft encourages the two vertebrae to fuse over time. The word anterior refers to the front of the body meaning the surgeon reaches the spine through the abdomen

  • Posterior lumbar interbody fusion: PLIF is a type of spinal fusion surgery where two or more vertebrae in the lower back are permanently joined together. The procedure is performed through the back of the body. During surgery the damaged disc between the vertebrae is removed and replaced with an implant or bone graft. Over time these bones fuse together to form a single, stable structure, preventing abnormal movement and reducing pain.

  • Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion: TLIF is a type of spinal fusion surgery performed through the back of the body, using a small incision on one side of the spine. During the procedure the spine surgeon removes the damaged intervertebral disc and replaces it with a bone graft or specialised implant between the affected vertebrae. Metal screws and rods are also placed to keep the spine stable while the bone graft fuses over time.The term transforaminal refers to the pathway through which the spine surgeon reaches the disc space carefully working around the spinal nerves to minimize tissue disruption. This approach allows for greater precision, reduced muscle damage and faster recovery.

 

  • Artificial cervical disc replacement: Artificial Cervical Disc Replacement is also known as Cervical Disc Arthroplasty. its minimally invasive surgical procedure in which a damaged or degenerated cervical disc in the neck is replaced with a medical grade artificial disc implant. The purpose of this implant is to mimic the natural motion of a healthy spinal disc, preserving flexibility and stability in the neck. Unlike spinal fusion which permanently joins two vertebrae together, disc replacement maintains movement between them allowing patients to turn, bend and move their neck more naturally after recovery.

  • Minimally invasive TLIF: Minimally invasive TLIF is a specialized spine surgery performed to fuse two or more vertebrae in the lower back using a smaller incision compared to traditional open surgery. During this procedure the spine specialist accesses the spine from one side of the back (the transforaminal route) using precision guided instruments and an operating microscope or endoscope. This approach minimizes damage to surrounding muscles and tissues, leading to less pain, reduced blood loss, shorter hospital stays and faster recovery for patients.

Cost of Slipped Disc Treatment in Mumbai

The cost of slipped disc treatment in Mumbai typically ranges between ₹1,00,000 and ₹5,00,000 depending on the type of procedure and technology used. Both non surgical and surgical treatments, including minimally invasive techniques can affect the overall price. Additional factors such as hospital charges, surgeon fees, diagnostic tests and post treatment rehabilitation also contribute to the total cost. Patients are advised to consult their hospital or spine specialist for an accurate estimate which helps in planning the treatment and managing expenses effectively.

Recovery & Rehabilitation

Recovering from spine treatment or surgery is a gradual process that focuses on restoring movement, strength and confidence in daily activities. A structured rehabilitation plan plays an important role in ensuring long term recovery and preventing recurrence of pain or injury.

Here’s what patients can expect during the recovery and rehabilitation phase:

  • Personalized Recovery Plan:

Every patient’s recovery timeline is different, depending on the type of procedure, overall health and severity of the condition. A spine specialist and physiotherapist design a personalized program to promote safe and steady healing.

  • Early Mobilization:

Gentle movement and walking are encouraged soon after treatment to improve circulation and prevent stiffness. Early mobility helps reduce post surgical discomfort and speeds up recovery.

  • Pain Management:

Medications and cold or heat therapy are used to manage discomfort in the initial recovery phase. As healing progresses, pain usually decreases significantly with proper posture and activity modification.

  • Physiotherapy and Exercise:

Structured physiotherapy sessions focus on strengthening the back and core muscles, improving flexibility and correcting posture. Exercises are gradually intensified to enhance spinal stability and prevent future injuries.

  • Posture and Ergonomic Training:

Patients learn correct sitting, standing and lifting techniques to reduce spinal strain. Ergonomic guidance helps prevent recurrence, especially for those with sedentary or desk based jobs.

  • Lifestyle Modifications:

Incorporating regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and adequate rest supports long term spine health. Avoiding smoking, excessive weight gain and poor posture habits can reduce the risk of future spine issues.

  • Follow Up and Monitoring:

Regular follow up visits with the spine specialist ensure proper healing and detect any early complications. Imaging tests or physical assessments may be done to confirm spinal stability and fusion progress (if surgery was performed).

  • Return to Normal Activities:

Most patients resume light activities within a few weeks, while complete recovery may take a few months depending on the procedure.

A gradual return to work, sports or physical activities is guided by the treating specialist to avoid setbacks.

A well managed recovery and rehabilitation plan not only restores spinal function but also improves overall quality of life. With consistent care, guided therapy and a proactive approach, most patients regain comfort, flexibility and confidence in their daily movements.

what's the difference in Slip disc and sciatica

Here is one of the best Spine Surgeon in Mumbai Dr. Saijyot Raut clarify the differents in Slip disc and sciatica

Slip Disc Sciatica
What Is
A condition where the soft inner gel of a spinal disc bulges or leaks out through its outer layer, pressing on nearby nerves.
A symptom or condition caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, leading to pain that travels from the lower back to the leg.
Primary Cause
Usually occurs due to disc degeneration, sudden injury, poor posture or heavy lifting
Commonly results from a slipped disc, bone spur or spinal stenosis compressing the sciatic nerve.
Area Affected
Primarily affects the spinal discs in the lower back (lumbar spine).
Affects the path of the sciatic nerve, running from the lower back through the buttock and down each leg.
Type of Condition
Structural spinal problem (disc-related).
Nerve-related pain condition (symptom of an underlying issue).
Common Symptoms
Localised back pain, stiffness, muscle weakness or tingling in arms or legs depending on the disc location.
Sharp, shooting pain radiating down one leg, numbness, tingling or burning sensation along the nerve path.
Pain Pattern
Pain may remain confined to the spine or nearby region.
Pain usually travels down the leg and can worsen with sitting or coughing.
Diagnosis
MRI or CT scan to identify disc bulge or herniation.
Physical examination and imaging to confirm nerve compression, often due to disc herniation or other causes.
Treatment Options
Rest, physiotherapy, spinal decompression therapy, medications or in severe cases, minimally invasive surgery.
Physiotherapy, nerve pain management, targeted exercises, medications and in some cases, surgical decompression.
Recovery Time
Most cases improve within 4 to 6 weeks with conservative treatment.
Recovery depends on severity but usually improves within weeks with proper therapy and rest.
Preventive Measures
Maintain good posture, strengthen core muscles and avoid lifting heavy objects incorrectly.
Stay active, stretch regularly, and address underlying causes like slipped discs early.

When to See a Doctor

A slipped disc can often improve with rest, posture correction and guided physiotherapy. However, there are times when professional evaluation becomes essential to prevent long term complications. Recognizing these warning signs early ensures timely treatment and faster recovery.

You should see a spine specialist or physiotherapist if you experience any of the following:

  • Persistent back or neck pain: Pain lasting more than a few weeks or worsening over time may indicate significant disc pressure or nerve involvement.

  • Radiating leg or arm pain: Sharp, shooting pain that travels down your leg or arm (commonly seen in sciatica) suggests nerve compression.

  • Numbness or tingling: A tingling or “pins and needles” sensation in your hands, feet or legs can be a sign of nerve irritation.

  • Muscle weakness: Difficulty lifting objects, walking steadily, or maintaining grip strength may point to nerve-related muscle weakness.

  • Loss of bladder or bowel control: Though rare, this is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention, as it may indicate severe nerve compression (cauda equina syndrome).

  • Limited mobility or stiffness: When movement becomes restricted despite rest or home care, professional rehabilitation may be necessary.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important not to ignore them. A spine specialist can review the severity of the disc problem by using diagnostic tools like MRI or physical assessment and suggest personalized treatment options 

Timely medical intervention not only relieves pain but also prevents further nerve damage, helping you return to your normal activities safely and confidently.

conditions
Surgery
Minimally
Invasive approach

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