Spinal disk herniation

Updated: 2023-10-24

Description

A condition that affects the rubbery disks between the bones that stack to make the spine.

Overview

Spinal disk herniation, also known as a slipped or herniated disk, occurs when the soft center of a spinal disk pushes through a crack in the tougher exterior casing.

Symptoms

A herniated disk can irritate nearby nerves and result in pain, numbness, or weakness in an arm or a leg. Most herniated disks occur in the lower back.

Treatment

Treatments include medicines, physical therapy and modifying activity to relieve pain. In some cases, surgery may be an option.