Herniated discs: understanding the problem and restoring movement

A diagnosis of a herniated disc often raises questions: is it causing my pain? Can I exercise? Will I need surgery? To understand what it means, it helps to start with the intervertebral disc.

What is a herniated disc?

Discs sit between the vertebrae and help distribute loads and allow movement. They have a tough outer layer and a softer centre. A herniation occurs when some of the inner material pushes through a weakened or cracked area of the outer layer.

If it affects a nerve root, it can cause radiating pain, tingling, reduced sensation or weakness. In the lower back, the pain may extend down a leg.

Scans do not tell the whole story

Some herniated discs cause no symptoms. This is why an MRI scan needs to be interpreted alongside each person’s symptoms, physical examination and progress over time.

The size of the herniation alone does not determine how much pain you will experience or how your recovery will progress.

How is it managed?

Many people improve with conservative treatment. Depending on the situation, this may include adapted exercise, temporary changes to activity, physiotherapy and prescribed medication.

At my practice, hands-on care may be considered as a complement, after assessing whether it is appropriate. The aim is to support your return to movement and activity—not to “put the disc back in place” or promise that the herniation will disappear.

When to seek emergency medical care

If you develop new difficulty passing urine, loss of bladder or bowel control, reduced sensation around the genitals or rapidly worsening weakness, seek urgent medical attention.

NHS — Slipped disc and AAOS — Herniated Disk in the Lower Back