Understanding Slipped Disc: Causes, Types, and Symptoms

FAQ Series — The Pain Relief Clinic Singapore

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What is a slipped disc?

A slipped disc, also known as a disc herniation, occurs when the soft inner portion of an intervertebral disc (nucleus pulposus) bulges or leaks out through a tear in the tougher outer layer (annulus fibrosus). This may press on nearby spinal nerves, causing pain or other symptoms.

Discs act as shock absorbers between the bones of your spine, and when compromised, they can lead to neck, back, or even leg pain depending on the affected area.

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Is a slipped disc the same as a herniated or prolapsed disc?

Yes, the terms are often used interchangeably:

• Slipped disc is a general layman’s term.
• Herniated disc is the more accurate medical description.
• Prolapsed disc also refers to disc material pushing out of its normal position.

While terminology may vary, all describe some degree of disc displacement beyond its normal boundary, potentially irritating surrounding nerves.

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How does a slipped disc happen?

Slipped discs can occur from:

• Age-related wear and tear (degeneration)
• Lifting heavy objects incorrectly
• Sudden twisting movements or trauma (e.g. car accident)
• Repetitive strain (from sports or physical work)
• Poor posture or prolonged sitting

In many cases, it is a combination of gradual disc weakening and sudden physical stress that leads to disc herniation.

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What are the different types of slipped discs?

Slipped discs can be categorized by location and severity:

By Location:

• Cervical disc herniation: in the neck
• Thoracic disc herniation: in the mid-back (rare)
• Lumbar disc herniation: in the lower back (most common)

By Severity:

• Bulging disc: the disc protrudes without rupturing
• Protruded disc: more pronounced bulge with partial rupture
• Extruded or Sequestered disc: disc material breaks through the outer layer completely and may separate

An MRI scan is the most effective way to determine the type and severity of the disc issue.

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Can you have a slipped disc without any symptoms?

Yes. Some people have slipped discs without realizing it. These cases are often found incidentally on scans done for other reasons.
In fact, not all slipped discs cause pain. Symptoms usually occur when the herniated disc presses on nerves, leading to:

• Localised back or neck pain
• Numbness or tingling
• Weakness in arms or legs
• Pain that radiates into the limbs (sciatica)

At The Pain Relief Clinic, many patients visit us when the discomfort begins to limit daily life, and we help confirm the diagnosis through non-invasive evaluation and imaging when needed.