Slipped discs refers to a situation when the discs that are found between the spinal vertebrae become damaged. These discs are found around each vertebrae to cushion them from shock and allow for flexible movement. When the disc is damaged, it begins to bulge, causing the vertebrae to sit awkwardly, pressing on the spinal cord and causing pain in the back.
Discs do not slip on their own, even among those at risk, but depend on certain triggers. Some of the triggers that may cause a disc to slip include lifting a heavy load from the ground or turning to lift a load which exerts an increased pressure on the spine.
A slipped disc can happen on any part of the spinal cord, causing pain anywhere from the neck to the lower back. However, the lower back is the area most commonly affected where the lumbar spine is located because it is curved. Some of the common symptoms include:
- Pain on one side of the body.
- Pain radiating from the back and running through limbs.
- Increasing pain with certain movements.
- Unexplained muscle weakness.
- Aching, tingling and burning sensations in the affected area.
