How a Slipped Disc Occurs

The two main causes of a slipped or herniated disc are natural degeneration and trauma.

Natural degeneration weakens the disc as the nucleus pulposus becomes less hydrated with age.

Trauma can result from lifting heavy loads with incorrect posture or external forces, like a whiplash injury.

Rarely, connective tissue disorders or alterations in spinal vertebrae shape may also cause a slipped disc.

Disc Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending on herniation location and soft tissue involved.

They can range from little or no pain to severe neck pain, cervical problems, and a stiff neck. Pain often radiates into areas served by nerve roots irritated by herniated material.

Patients often have undefined pains in the thighs, knees, or feet, delaying diagnosis.

Most symptoms include back pain and discomfort.

If a spinal nerve is compressed, one may experience numbness, muscle weakness, and pain along the affected nerve.