Slipped disc
Overview
A GP will ask you about your symptoms to check if you have a slipped disc. They may also do a physical examination.
If pain from a slipped disc does not get better, treatments can include strong painkillers, physiotherapy and surgery.
A slipped disc can be caused by things like ageing, exercising too hard or lifting heavy objects the wrong way.
You can help prevent getting a slipped disc by doing regular exercise and quitting smoking if you smoke.
A slipped disc, also called a prolapsed or herniated disc, is where a soft cushion of tissue between the bones in your spine pushes out of place.
Page last reviewed: 23/04/2024
Next review due: 24/04/2027