Don’t Let a Slipped Disc Disrupt Your Life

So, what exactly is a slipped disc?

A slip disc occurs when the “gel” covering a disc in the spine herniates and shifts, due to degeneration of disc elasticity. A slipped disc is also known as a ‘herniated’, ‘ruptured’ or ‘prolapsed’ disc.

Between each vertebra in our spine are discs that keep it supple. These discs also act as shock absorbers.

“Depending on the severity of the slipped disc, a person’s disc may be bulging, but not prolapsed, or slipped,” explains orthopaedic surgeon เล่น UFABET ผ่านมือถือ สะดวกทุกที่ ทุกเวลา and spine specialist “In more serious cases, the disc may rupture and allow the “jelly-like substance” (nucleus pulposus) within it to protrude.”

In more serious cases, the nucleus pulposus may detach itself from the disc entirely and occupy the space in the spinal canal, causing severe nerve compression, adds Dr Chua.

What causes a slipped disc?

The main cause of a slipped disc is wear and tear. As you age, your discs may lose their elasticity and become more prone to damage. Any activity that puts pressure on the spine may lead to a slipped disc.

However, genetics and environmental factors also contribute to a higher chance of developing a slipped disc.

“Some people have a family history of slipped discs, so they have a higher genetic predisposition to it,” says “People who exercise incorrectly or sit for long periods are also more prone to this.”

Sitting, especially with poor posture, puts more pressure on your back than standing or lying down, he adds.

One lesser-known cause of slip disc is smoking. The toxins from cigarettes and other tobacco products prevent your discs from getting the nutrients they need to stay healthy and flexible. This, in turn, can accelerate the degeneration of your disc and contribute to further disc damage.

What are the signs and symptoms of a slipped disc (prolapsed or herniated disc)?

It’s not always easy to tell the difference between discomfort cause by a muscle strain and pain caused by a slipped disc.

“If you experience numbness or pain that shoots down your legs (radicular pain), it’s likely you have a slipped disc and that the exposed substance in the disc is pinching the nerves that run from your lower spine to your foot,” say “But a slipped disc can only be confirmed after magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is done on the patient.”

Discomfort from a backache or muscle strain usually goes away within 6 weeks, while pain caused by a slipped disc may progressively become more severe.