Slipped Disc (Herniated Disc): Diagnosis & Treatment
A slipped or herniated disc can cause back pain, numbness, or weakness from nerve compression. Dr Foo offers targeted evaluation and personalised care to relieve symptoms, restore function, and reduce recurrence risk.
MBBS (University of London) | MMed (Ortho) | FRCSEd (Ortho) | FAMS (Ortho)
What Is a Slipped Disc (Herniated Disc)?
A slipped disc, also known as a herniated or prolapsed disc, occurs when the soft
inner core of an intervertebral disc bulges or ruptures through a weakened or damaged
outer layer. This can irritate nearby nerves, leading to pain, numbness, or
weakness in the affected area.
Intervertebral discs are cushion-like structures located between the vertebrae of the spine.
They function as shock absorbers, providing flexibility and support while enabling smooth
spinal movement. When a disc herniates, it can press on surrounding nerves, leading to
discomfort and mobility issues.
A slipped disc most commonly occurs in the lower back (lumbar spine) but can also affect the
neck (cervical spine). Depending on its severity, it can interfere with daily
activities such as sitting, walking, lifting, or even sleeping, making
routine tasks more difficult and affecting overall quality of life.
Slipped Disc Causes
A slipped disc can develop due to a combination of ageing, physical stress, and biomechanical factors (the way forces and movements affect the spine and surrounding structures). Common risk factors include:
- Ageing – Natural degeneration of spinal discs over time leads to loss of hydration and elasticity, making them more prone to wear and tear. Reduced blood supply and oxidative stress further accelerate this process, increasing the risk of disc herniation.
- Sedentary Lifestyle – Prolonged sitting and lack of movement weaken spinal support structures.
- Repetitive Movements – Occupational or sports-related activities involving frequent bending or heavy lifting. Repetitive strain, improper lifting techniques, and sudden movements can increase the risk of disc herniation.
- Excess Weight – Increased load on the spine adds pressure to the intervertebral discs, accelerating wear and tear and leading to a reduction in disc height.
- Trauma or Injury – Accidents, falls, or impact-related injuries can cause sudden excessive force on the spine, leading to disc tears, displacement, or herniation.
- Genetics – A family history of lumbar degenerative disc disease or connective tissue disorders may increase susceptibility to disc degeneration and herniation, with certain gene variations affecting collagen and disc structure linked to a higher risk.
Slipped Disc Symptoms
The symptoms of a slipped disc vary based on the location and severity of the condition.
Some individuals may experience no symptoms, while others may have significant pain or
neurological issues.
Common symptoms include:
- Lower Back Pain – Persistent or sharp pain in the lumbar region, sometimes radiating to the buttocks and legs.
- Neck Pain – If the herniation occurs in the cervical spine, pain may extend to the shoulders, arms, and even hands.
- Nerve Compression Symptoms – Tingling, numbness, or weakness in the arms, hands, legs, or feet due to nerve irritation.
- Sciatica – Sharp, shooting pain radiating from the lower back down one leg, often caused by compression of the sciatic nerve.
- Muscle Weakness – Reduced strength in affected muscles, leading to difficulty in gripping, lifting, or walking.
- Limited Mobility – Stiffness or discomfort that makes bending, twisting, standing, or performing daily activities challenging.
Early diagnosis and treatment of a slipped disc can help prevent worsening symptoms and long-term issues such as chronic pain, mobility limitations, or nerve damage. If you experience persistent back or neck pain, numbness, or weakness that affects daily activities, consult a spine specialist for proper evaluation and personalised treatment. 
How Is a Slipped Disc Diagnosed?
A slipped disc is diagnosed through a combination of clinical evaluation, imaging tests, and neurological assessments.
- Medical History Review – Assessment of symptoms, lifestyle factors, previous injuries, and family history of spinal conditions.
- Physical Examination – Evaluation of reflexes, muscle strength, and sensation to detect nerve compression and pinpoint affected areas.
- Imaging Tests – X-rays help rule out other spinal conditions such as fractures or arthritis. MRI provides detailed images of soft tissues to detect disc herniation and nerve compression. CT scans produce cross-sectional images to assess spinal abnormalities and disc structure, especially when an MRI is not suitable.
- Nerve Conduction Studies – Measures electrical impulses in nerves to assess function and detect conduction delays. In cases of persistent numbness, weakness, or radiating pain, it helps determine the severity of nerve compression.
Slipped Disc Treatment in Singapore
Treatment for a slipped disc depends on its severity, symptoms, and how the patient responds to initial treatment. Most cases improve with a conservative approach, while surgery may be considered if symptoms persist or worsen despite non-surgical interventions.
| Treatment | Description & Purpose |
|---|---|
| Non-Surgical Management | |
| Rest and Activity Modification | Avoids strenuous activities while maintaining light physical activity to prevent stiffness and support healing. Reducing excessive strain on the spine allows the disc to recover, while gentle movements like walking or stretching help maintain muscle strength and joint flexibility. |
| Pain Management | Over-the-counter medications or prescribed anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce pain and swelling. Heat packs can help relax muscles, while ice packs can reduce inflammation and numb pain, helping to relieve nerve pressure and improve mobility. |
| Physiotherapy | Involves targeted exercises to strengthen core and back muscles, improving spinal stability and reducing pressure on the affected disc. Strengthening surrounding muscles helps support the spine and prevent further injury. |
| Immobilisation | Bracing or wearing a supportive device may be recommended in some cases to limit spinal movement and reduce strain on the affected disc, allowing it to heal. This is typically used for short periods to avoid muscle weakening. |
| Injection-Based Treatment | Corticosteroid injections can be administered around the irritated nerve root to reduce inflammation and swelling, providing temporary pain relief and possibly delaying surgery. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, which use concentrated platelets from the patient’s own blood, can also be used to promote healing. Nerve block injections may also be administered to disrupt pain signals. |
| Surgical Intervention | |
| Discectomy | Removes the herniated portion of the disc through a minimally invasive or open surgical approach to relieve nerve compression. This may help reduce pain, numbness, and weakness while maintaining spinal mobility. |
| Laminectomy | Removes part of the vertebra (lamina) to create space and relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. This can help alleviate pain and improve nerve function, particularly in cases of severe compression due to disc herniation. |
| Spinal Fusion | Fuses two or more vertebrae using bone grafts or implants to stabilise the spine. This is typically considered in severe cases to prevent instability and reduce the risk of recurring disc herniation. |
Herniated Disc Prevention
Preventing a slipped or herniated disc involves adopting lifestyle changes and strengthening muscles to reduce the risk of developing or recurring disc issues.
- Maintain Proper Posture – Avoid slouching and ensure good spinal alignment while sitting, standing, and walking.
- Take Breaks from Sitting – Prolonged sitting weakens and stiffens spinal structures, so stand up, stretch, and move around regularly.
- Stay Active – Engage in low-impact activities like swimming, walking, or yoga to improve spinal flexibility, promote circulation, and reduce stiffness.
- Strengthen Core Muscles – Engage in regular exercises that target the back and abdominal muscles to improve spinal support.
- Maintain Proper Lifting Technique – Bend at the knees, keep your back straight, and engage your core while lifting heavy objects. Hold the load close to your body and use your legs to push up, rather than bending or twisting your spine.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight – Reducing excess weight helps minimise strain on the lower back and spine.
When to Seek Medical Attention?
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Severe or persistent pain that does not improve with rest or pain relief.
- Pain that radiates down the legs or arms, especially if it worsens over time.
- Tingling or numbness that spreads beyond the affected area, indicating possible nerve involvement.
- Progressive weakness, numbness, or loss of coordination in the arms or legs.
- Difficulty walking or standing for extended periods due to instability or weakness.
- Loss of bladder or bowel control, which may indicate cauda equina syndrome, a rare but serious condition where compressed spinal nerves disrupt bladder and bowel function, requiring urgent medical intervention.
Every patient deserves a treatment plan tailored to their needs. We start with non-surgical approaches before considering more invasive interventions.
Dr Foo Gen Lin
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