Some people refer to a herniated disc condition as a “slipped disc”, but that is an inaccurate term. Nothing has actually “slipped”.
When a disc herniates, the outer fibrous rings break down or tear, allowing the gel-like center of the disc to protrude out beyond its designed limits. This is typically a very painful condition.
Pain may be limited to the direct area of the disc (like low back or neck), or often it may affect a nearby nerve that radiates pain into an arm or leg.
Bulging, herniating, extruding, torn, ruptured, and prolapsed are all varying designations of a damaged disc, and are all conditions that may benefit from our spinal decompression therapy.
A herniated disc may be caused by arthritis, degeneration, or some type of physical injury. See our “Disc Terminology” page for further detail on discs.
Discs Symptoms May Include:
- Lower back pain
- Sharp buttock pain
- Burning sensation in legs
- Thigh or leg pain
- Numbness in leg or foot
- Hip pain
- Neck pain
- Radiating pain into arms
Can Herniated Discs Heal?
Yes, they can heal. The treatment and time required, however, can vary depending on the location, type and severity of the damaged disc. It is important to first identify the problem and then decide on a treatment plan with your doctor.