A “slipped disc” is one of the most common phrases I hear in practice—but did you know that discs don’t actually slip?

While it’s a widely used term, what people are usually referring to is a herniated or prolapsed disc—when one of the soft cushions (discs) between the bones (vertebrae) in your spine bulges or protrudes out of place. This can put pressure on nearby nerves and cause symptoms such as pain, numbness, or weakness.

The term “slipped” suggests that the disc moves freely out of position—but that’s not what happens. In reality, the inner gel-like centre of the disc pushes through tiny tears in the tougher outer ring, often causing irritation, inflammation, and sometimes nerve compression.

It may sound like semantics, but this distinction is important—especially when you’re in pain and looking for answers. After two decades of helping people in Newcastle manage disc complaints, I can tell you that truly understanding what’s happening with your spine makes a big difference in both your treatment options and your recovery outcomes.

Slipped disc symptoms vary depending on where in the spine the disc is affected:

• Lower back pain (lumbar spine) – the most common area

• Sciatica – shooting pain down one leg, often caused by nerve compression

• Neck pain (cervical spine) – may radiate into the shoulders or arms

• Tingling, numbness or weakness – in arms or legs

• Worsening pain with movement – coughing, sneezing, or sitting can make it worse

If you’re experiencing loss of bladder or bowel control, seek immediate medical care, as this could indicate a serious condition called cauda equina syndrome.

Not all disc injuries are created equal—and understanding the stage of injury can help determine the most appropriate treatment:

Stage 1: Degeneration

The disc loses hydration, becoming less elastic and more brittle. This is often a result of age or long-term stress on the spine. You may not feel pain at this stage, but it’s a sign of wear and tear beginning.

Stage 2: Prolapse (Bulging Disc)

Small tears in the outer ring allow the inner material to push outward, creating a bulge—though the inner material remains contained. This is the most commonly seen disc issue.

Stage 3: Extrusion

Now the inner gel has broken through the outer ring but hasn’t yet escaped the disc entirely. Pressure on nearby nerves can become more significant at this stage.

Stage 4: Sequestration

In the most advanced form, disc material leaks entirely out of the disc and into the spinal canal. This can lead to intense nerve irritation or inflammation.

In most cases, disc injuries can be managed effectively with conservative (non-surgical) treatment. These approaches focus on reducing pain, restoring mobility, and supporting the body’s natural healing process—without the risks associated with surgery.

Here are the most common and effective conservative treatments for disc-related issues:

1. Chiropractic Care

Gentle spinal adjustments and mobilisations can help reduce pressure on the disc, improve joint function, and alleviate inflammation. Chiropractic care often plays a key role in restoring movement and promoting long-term spinal health.

2. Physiotherapy

A tailored exercise and rehabilitation plan can help strengthen the muscles around the spine, improve mobility, and support healing. Physiotherapists also provide postural advice and core stability work to reduce strain on the spine.

3. Massage Therapy

Soft tissue work can help release muscle tension, reduce compensatory strain patterns, and ease discomfort—especially in surrounding areas affected by protective muscular tightness.

4. Pain Management

This might include anti-inflammatory medications, temporary use of pain relief, heat or ice therapy, and short-term rest. These approaches are typically used during acute flare-ups.

5. Lifestyle Modifications

Adjusting posture, improving ergonomics at work, and staying active with low-impact movement (like walking or swimming) all support healing. Staying hydrated also helps maintain disc health.