Slipped disc is also known as a herniated or prolapsed disc. It usually occurs due to a build up of strain to the disc, which then
eventually causes the disc to 'slip'. Often patients are bending or lifting when they feel their back 'go' i.e. picking up the
newspaper or lifting a toddler.
The damaged disc can put pressure on the whole spinal cord or on a single nerve, which can cause symptoms such as pain, weakness,
numbness, pins & needles or altered sensations. A slipped disc occurs usually in the low back, but any disc can rupture. In this
case for example, low back and pelvis pain may be present with associated numbness and pins & needles in the leg.
Osteopaths can help relieve the tension and spasm in the muscles, mobilise and align the spine to reduce pressure on the injured
disc and give specific advice and exercises. It may take time for the condition to stabilize, but Osteopathy can be an effective &
essential part of recovery and an Osteopath will be able to educate you as to how to protect and strengthen your back for the
future.
