Herniated or Slipped disc is a common spine problem that affects many of us. It tends to affect us most when we are in our 30s and 40s. The most common presentation is that of lower backache and shooting pain down one leg, also known as “sciatica“.
In severe cases, we might even complain of loss of bladder and bowel continence. When this occurs, it is important you seek medical attention immediately.
The terms “herniated disc” and “slipped disc” generally refer to the same condition: intervertebral disc herniation.
Depending on the location of the slipped disc, the distribution of pain and “pins and needles” sensation one feels on the leg may vary. It is quite common for patients to complain of symptoms over the calf and foot regions.
There are several causes for disc herniation, the main ones of which are:
As we age, spinal discs lose water content, becoming less flexible, more brittle and thinner. This makes them more susceptible to tearing or bulging even with minor strain or twisting.
This natural degeneration starts relatively early in life (often in the 30’s) but progresses over time.
Sudden force: A fall, blow to the back, or violent twisting motion can cause a disc to herniate suddenly.
Repetitive stress: Jobs or activities involving heavy lifting, frequent bending, twisting, or vibration (like operating machinery) place repeated stress on the spine, weakening discs over time.
Lifting heavy objects using your back muscles instead of your legs, especially while twisting, dramatically increases pressure on discs and is a major cause of herniation.
Chronic poor posture (sitting slouched for long periods, poor standing posture) places uneven pressure on the spine and discs, contributing to degeneration over time.
A patient is suspected to be suffering from slipped disc or disc herniation when he/she presents with the above-mentioned symptoms. To confirm it, an MRI scan of the lower back must be performed.
Your doctor will assess your posture, movement, and strength to evaluate how your spine and muscles are functioning.
An X-ray helps detect signs of fractures, degenerative changes, or issues in the bones of the spine.
An MRI provides detailed images of soft tissues like discs, muscles, and nerves, helping identify conditions such as herniated discs or nerve compression.
A CT scan allows us to visualize the bones more clearly.
Patients are usually treated conservatively with anti-inflammatory painkillers and a course of physiotherapy initially. If the symptoms persist for over a month, an epidural steroid injection to the affected level of the spine can be considered.
If the pain is still persistent despite non-surgical treatment or if the affected leg is noted to be weak, a hemilaminectomy and microdiscectomy surgery can be considered. This surgery is performed in a minimally invasive (“keyhole”) manner either using a microscope (Figure A) or endoscope (Figure B). It takes no more than 2 hours, and the patient can be discharged the very next day after surgery.
There are a variety of pain treatment options available, ranging from non-surgical methods to surgery, depending on the severity of your condition.
In some cases, surgery may be necessary if other treatments have not provided sufficient relief or if you are suffering from conditions such as a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or severe nerve compression. Surgical options might include:
We work closely with trusted insurance partners to make your treatment seamless. Contact us, and we’ll guide you through the process at every step of the way.
Dr. Marcus Ling is a Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon with a special focus on minimally invasive and motion-preserving spinal surgery. A dedicated clinician and educator, he has led advancements in spinal care while mentoring future surgeons. Known for his compassionate approach, he prioritises patient well-being, ensuring expert, personalised treatment for every individual. Dr. Ling is also one of the few surgeons that can perform awake spinal fusion without the need for general anaesthesia. This approach minimises downtime, allowing patients to be discharged within 24 hours of surgery when possible.
Reach out to our team today to explore your treatment options, schedule an appointment and start your journey towards enhanced health and mobility.
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