A slipped disc, also known as a herniated or prolapsed disc, occurs when the soft inner portion of a spinal disc pushes through its outer layer. This can place pressure on nearby nerves, leading to back or neck pain, pain radiating to the arms or legs, numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness. Slipped discs most commonly affect the lower back (lumbar spine) and neck (cervical spine).
Dr. Pranav Shah provides comprehensive evaluation and treatment for slipped disc using a patient-centered approach. A detailed clinical examination, along with advanced imaging such as MRI when required, helps accurately diagnose the condition and determine the severity of nerve compression. Treatment is tailored to each patient based on symptoms, lifestyle, and overall spinal health.
Most slipped discs can be successfully treated without surgery through medications, physiotherapy, activity modification, and rehabilitation. Surgery is considered only when symptoms persist despite conservative treatment, or when there is significant nerve compression causing severe pain, weakness, or difficulty performing daily activities.
Symptoms vary depending on the location of the affected disc and the degree of nerve compression. Common symptoms include:
A slipped disc commonly occurs due to age-related degeneration, heavy lifting, sudden twisting movements, injuries, obesity, or prolonged poor posture. These factors can weaken the spinal discs, making them more prone to herniation.
No. Most patients improve with medications, physiotherapy, activity modification, and guided rehabilitation. Surgery is recommended only when conservative treatment fails or when there is severe nerve compression, progressive weakness, or loss of bladder or bowel control.
Recovery depends on the severity of the condition and the treatment required. Many patients improve within a few weeks with non-surgical treatment, while those undergoing surgery usually experience gradual recovery over several weeks with appropriate rehabilitation and follow-up care.