WHAT IS A LUMBAR SLIP DISC (HERNIATED DISC)?

A lumbar herniated disc, commonly called a slip disc, occurs when:

• The outer fibrous layer of the disc (annulus fibrosus) tears

• The inner gel-like core (nucleus pulposus) pushes out

• This bulge compresses nearby spinal nerves

SYMPTOMS OF
LUMBAR SLIP DISC

A lumbar herniated disc can cause:

• Intermittent or continuous lower back pain

• Pain that worsens with movement, coughing, sneezing, or prolonged standing

• Muscle spasms in the lower back

• Sciatica – pain radiating from the back or buttock down the leg to the calf or foot

• Muscle weakness in the legs

• Numbness or tingling in the leg or foot

• Difficulty in walking

• Changes in bladder or bowel function (in severe cases)

When a nerve is compressed, it leads to a pinched nerve, causing symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs, often referred to as sciatica.

Note: These symptoms may overlap with other spine conditions. A proper medical diagnosis is essential.

CAUSES & RISK FACTORS OF SLIP DISC

Degenerative changes
(most common cause)

As part of aging:

• Intervertebral discs lose water content

• Discs become less flexible

• Increased risk of tears and herniation

WHO IS AT RISK?

The most commonly affected age group is 25 to 40 years, where early degeneration begins but activity levels remain high.

High-risk profiles include:

• Sedentary individuals with occasional strenuous activity

• Overweight or obese individuals

• People with poor posture or prolonged sitting habits

• Individuals involved in heavy physical work or intense activity

This can cause a tear in the annulus fibrosus, allowing the nucleus pulposus to herniate into the spinal canal.

Note: These symptoms may overlap with other spine conditions. A proper medical diagnosis is essential.

Acute injury or strain

Slip disc can also occur in younger individuals due to:

• Injury or trauma

• Sudden twisting movements

• Heavy lifting

TESTS & DIAGNOSIS FOR LUMBAR DISC PROBLEMS

If symptoms of slip disc are present, the following tests may be advised:

• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging):
  The best diagnostic tool to evaluate spinal cord, nerves, discs, and ligaments

• EMG (Electromyography):
  Assesses nerve function and helps identify the exact cause of pain

TREATMENT OF LUMBAR SLIP DISC
IS SURGERY ALWAYS REQUIRED?

No. Most slip disc cases can be treated without surgery.

Non-surgical (Conservative) Treatment:

• Rest (short-term, controlled)

• Medications to reduce inflammation and pain

• Muscle relaxants

• Epidural steroid injections or nerve blocks

Since symptoms can mimic other spine conditions, additional tests may be required for accurate diagnosis.

Complete rest reduces pressure on the disc, allowing healing over 3 to 6 weeks.

Once pain is controlled, gradual return to activity and physiotherapy is essential for recovery.

WHEN IS SURGERY REQUIRED FOR SLIP DISC?

Surgical treatment depends on:

• Duration and severity of pain

• Response to non-surgical treatment

• Presence of neurological symptoms (weakness, numbness)

• Bladder or bowel involvement

A lumbar slip disc is a common but treatable condition.

In such cases, early surgical intervention improves the chances of nerve recovery and long-term outcomes.

With early diagnosis and the right treatment approach:

• Most patients recover without surgery

• Minimally invasive options are available when needed

• Long-term outcomes are excellent with proper care

Surgery is usually recommended when:

• Symptoms persist beyond 6–12 weeks despite treatment

• There is significant nerve compression

• Neurological deficits are present

Frequently asked questions

What surgery is advised?

Microdiscectomy: Minimally invasive or key hole surgery.

The surgery is targeted at the disc with minimal handling of the nerves. A procedure that uses a microscope and microsurgical tools to remove the portion of the disc that is pressing against the nerve, relieving the pressure caused by a herniated disc. The aim is remove loose fragments enough to free the nerve and cause relief of pain. The annulus (disc covering) heals naturally allowing normal activity

This procedure is performed either by using a microscope and a tubular retractor or an endoscope. The skin incisions size is between 8mm to 14mm small.

How long will I have to stay in the hospital?

These are day care procedures where the patient can be discharged within 24 hours.

Is bed rest required post surgery?

Post surgery no bed rest is required. The patient is made to walk within 3 hours.

How much disc is removed?

Only the portion of the disc that is herniated is removed. This decompresses the nerve and gives pain relief. The rest of the disc is kept intact. The defect in the disc heals naturally.

What precautions have to be taken?

The surgical wound is covered with a waterproof band-aid. The wound has to be kept dry till it heals (10days). Free forward bending, ground level sitting and lifting of heavy weights(8-10kgs) should be ideally avoided for 3 – 6 weeks. There is no restrictions on walking, travelling or resuming work.

Can there be a recurrence?

The surgery aims to control pain through a keyhole incision. However it does not strengthen or weaken the spine. There is a chance of recurrence if an uncontrolled activity tears the disc. Increasing core muscle strength by exercise is the best protection against a recurrence.

Can I lead normal life after a disc surgery?

Disc surgery does not refrain a person from pursuing a normal lifestyle. However like any other machine, the spine also needs maintenance. For any machine to function optimally the load on the machine (body-weight) should reduce and it should be serviced (core strengthening exercises) regularly.

Is this a safe procedure?

This is safe and effective surgery that allows immediate restoration of activity. The chances of nerve injury are minimized by use of a microscope. The complication rate can be placed at 1% or less.