What is a slipped disk?
A slipped disc means that one of the discs of cartilage in the spine is damaged and pressing on the nerves.
It’s also known as a prolapsed or herniated disc.
What are the symptoms of s slipped disk?
Symptoms of a slipped disc?
A slipped disc can cause back pain typical symptoms are numbness, a tingling sensation and weakness in other areas of the body.
The sciatic nerve is often affected in cases of slipped disc. It’s the longest nerve in the body and runs from the back of the pelvis, through the buttocks, and down both legs to the feet.
If pressure is placed on the sciatic nerve (sciatica), it can cause mild to severe pain in the leg, hip or buttocks.
Not all slipped discs cause symptoms such as pain, weakness or tingling. Many people will go their whole life not knowing they have slipped a disc !
What causes a slipped disc?
A slipped disc occurs when the circle of connective tissue surrounding the disc breaks down, allowing the soft, inner gel-like part of the disc to bulge out.
The damaged disc can put pressure on the whole spinal cord or on a single nerve root, where a nerve leaves the spinal cord.
This means a slipped disc can cause pain in the area of the protruding disc and also in the area of the body controlled by the nerve that the disc is pressing on.
It’s not always clear what causes a disc to break down, but age is a common factor in many cases.
As you get older, your spinal discs start to lose their water content, making them less flexible and more likely to split (rupture).
Smoking can also be associated with a slipped disc because it causes the discs to lose their natural flexibility.
Other factors that can put increased pressure and strain on your spine include:
- bending awkwardly
- heavy or awkward lifting
- sitting for long periods, particularly when driving
- being overweight or obese
- weight-bearing sports, such as weightlifting
- severely injuring your back, such as during a fall or car accident
These situations can weaken the disc tissue and sometimes lead to a slipped disc. If you would like to see an Osteopath about your back or any other concern you may have just book in on line
