Slipped disc (herniated disc): causes, symptoms and treatment
A clinically reviewed guide to slipped (herniated) discs — what they are, how they feel, and how most people recover.
Medically reviewed by D.C Matt · Lead Director
Last reviewed 1 July 2026
- “Slipped disc” is the everyday term for a herniated or prolapsed disc.
- Discs most commonly herniate in the lower back or neck.
- The majority of cases settle without surgery.
What is a slipped disc?
A slipped disc is when the soft inner core of a spinal disc pushes through its tougher outer layer, sometimes pressing on a nearby nerve.
Despite the name, the disc does not actually slip out of place. The bulging material can irritate nerves, which is what produces radiating pain. Discs act as cushions between the vertebrae.
What are the symptoms of a slipped disc?
Symptoms depend on location, but commonly include back or neck pain with pain, numbness or weakness that radiates into a limb.
- Pain in the lower back (or neck) that may radiate into a leg or arm
- Numbness or tingling along the path of the affected nerve
- Muscle weakness in the affected limb
- Pain that worsens with bending, sitting, coughing or sneezing
What causes a slipped disc?
Slipped discs are usually caused by age-related wear or strain from lifting, twisting or repetitive load on the spine.
- Gradual disc degeneration with age
- Heavy or awkward lifting
- Sudden strain or injury
- Prolonged sitting and poor movement habits
How is a slipped disc treated?
Most slipped discs are treated conservatively, with activity modification, targeted exercise and manual therapy to ease nerve irritation.
Care focuses on reducing pain, restoring movement and gradually loading the spine so the disc can settle. Imaging and specialist referral are considered when symptoms are severe or fail to improve.
The Postura approach
At Postura Wellness, care for a slipped disc is built around OrthoRestore™ — our signature method that combines chiropractic and physiotherapy into one coordinated plan. Depending on your assessment, it can bring together chiropractic adjustments, dry needling, muscle manipulation, Active Release Technique, and targeted exercises, supported where helpful by technology such as shockwave therapy and bioelectric therapy. The aim is to relieve symptoms while addressing the underlying causes, with a plan tailored to you.
When to seek urgent care
Get emergency medical attention for loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness around the groin or inner thighs, or sudden severe weakness in a leg. These can signal cauda equina syndrome, a rare but serious condition.
Sciatica FAQs
Can a slipped disc heal on its own?
Yes. Many herniated discs shrink over time and symptoms settle within weeks to months with conservative care.
Do I need surgery for a slipped disc?
Usually not. Surgery is considered only when there is significant nerve compression, progressive weakness, or symptoms that do not improve with conservative care.
Is exercise safe with a slipped disc?
Gentle, guided movement is usually beneficial. A clinician can tailor exercises to your stage of recovery and avoid movements that aggravate symptoms.
When is a slipped disc an emergency?
Seek urgent care for loss of bladder or bowel control, groin numbness, or rapidly worsening leg weakness.
This guide is informed by patient information from accredited medical institutions:
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