09/05/2025
A slipped disc (also called a herniated or bulging disc) happens when the soft inner material of a spinal disk pushes through its outer ring, irritating nearby nerves. Despite the name, the disk doesn’t actually “slip” out of place. This condition is a common cause of lower back pain and sciatica (pain radiating into the buttocks and legs).
Affects 5–20 out of every 1,000 adults, most often ages 20–50 and in men>women.
Primarily can be caused by aging and wear-and-tear (discs lose water content, weaken and shrink), trauma or injury or, less commonly, connective tissue or congenital disorders.
Every low back/disc symptom can present with different symptoms and is treated differently by each provider.
👉 Key takeaway: A slipped disc is a common spinal issue caused mostly by aging or injury, leading to nerve irritation and back or leg pain. Most cases improve with conservative care, but surgery may be needed for severe or persistent symptoms.