PHYSIOMOTIVEWhat a slip disc is
"Slip disc" is the everyday name for a bulging or herniated disc, also called PIVD (prolapsed intervertebral disc). The discs are the cushions between the bones of your spine. When the soft centre of a disc pushes outwards, it can irritate the nerve that passes beside it. The disc does not actually slip out of place.
It can happen in the lower back (lumbar spine) or in the neck (cervical spine). A lower back disc often causes pain that travels into the buttock and leg, much like sciatica. A neck disc can send pain, tingling or numbness into the shoulder, arm or hand.
Symptoms people notice
- Back or neck pain that worsens with sitting, bending forward, coughing or sneezing
- Pain, burning or pins and needles running into a leg or an arm
- Numbness, or a heavy, weak feeling in the leg, foot, arm or hand
- Relief in some positions, such as lying down, standing or walking
- Pain that was sudden after lifting or twisting, or that built up slowly over weeks
Why discs bulge
Repeated forward bending, long unbroken sitting, lifting with a rounded back, a weak core and ageing of the disc all play a part. Many people in Kharadi's offices sit for eight hours or more, which loads the lower back discs and the neck every day.
A bulge on an MRI does not always explain pain. Many people with disc bulges have no symptoms at all. So treatment is guided by your symptoms and a physical examination, not by the scan report alone.
How we treat a slip disc
The first visit looks at how your spine moves, which positions ease or aggravate your leg or arm symptoms, and the strength, sensation and reflexes in your limbs. The plan then follows what your body responds to.
- Hands-on mobilisation and soft tissue work, adjusted to how irritable your symptoms are
- Nerve mobilisation to help an irritated nerve move more freely
- A graded exercise plan for the core, hips and back or neck and shoulder blades
- Guidance on sitting, lifting and sleeping positions, and on your workstation
- Dry needling for muscle spasm around the spine where it suits your case
Will I need surgery?
Most disc-related pain improves without surgery, and a trial of physiotherapy is a usual first step when there are no warning signs. Surgery is considered when nerve function is getting worse, or when pain stays disabling despite proper conservative care. If your findings point that way, we will tell you and refer you to a spine specialist.
When to see a doctor first
Physiotherapy is not right for every problem. Get medical attention promptly if you have any of these:
- Loss of control over urine or bowels, difficulty passing urine, or numbness around the groin or inner thighs
- Leg or arm weakness that is getting worse, or a foot that drags or slaps on the ground
- Neck problems with clumsy hands, trouble walking or balance, or symptoms in both arms or both legs
- Severe pain that no position eases, or pain after a fall or accident
- Fever, unexplained weight loss, or a history of cancer along with new spine pain
Frequently asked questions
Can a slip disc heal on its own?
Many disc bulges settle over weeks to months, and symptoms often improve along the way. Physiotherapy aims to ease pain, keep you moving and prepare the spine to cope better while your body does the healing.
What should I avoid with a slip disc?
For a while, avoid positions that sharply increase leg or arm pain, such as long sitting or deep forward bending. Do not stop moving altogether, because short, regular walks usually help. We will tell you what to avoid for your case.
Is manual therapy safe for a slip disc?
Techniques are chosen after examination and adjusted to how irritable your symptoms are. If your findings suggest hands-on work is not suitable, you will be told.
Do I need an MRI before I come?
Not to start physiotherapy. Imaging is advised when there are warning signs, when you are not improving, or when a procedure is being considered. Bring any scans or reports you already have.
How long does recovery take?
It depends on the level of the disc, how severe the nerve irritation is and your work. Many people feel better within weeks, but full recovery can take longer. A plan is set after the first assessment and reviewed as you improve.