Back pain is one of the most common health problems affecting people of all ages. While many cases improve with rest and medications, persistent pain accompanied by numbness or weakness may indicate a slipped disc. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to worsening nerve damage and reduced quality of life.
At Neurospineone, Bhubaneswar, Dr. Atmaranjan Dash, an AIIMS-trained neurosurgeon, provides advanced diagnosis and treatment for slipped discs and other spine disorders.
Understanding a Slipped Disc
A slipped disc, also known as a herniated or prolapsed disc, occurs when the soft inner portion of a spinal disc pushes through its outer layer. As a result, the bulging disc may press on nearby nerves, causing pain and other neurological symptoms.
Slipped discs most commonly affect the lower back (lumbar spine) and neck (cervical spine).
Persistent Lower Back or Neck Pain
One of the earliest signs of a slipped disc is pain that does not improve with rest.
You may experience:
Constant lower back pain.
Neck pain that worsens with movement.
Pain while sitting, bending, or lifting objects.
Moreover, the discomfort may gradually become more severe over time.
Pain Radiating to the Arms or Legs
A slipped disc often compresses spinal nerves, causing pain to travel beyond the back.
Common symptoms include:
Pain shooting down one leg (sciatica).
Pain extending into the buttocks or thighs.
Neck pain radiating into the shoulder or arm.
Therefore, pain that spreads to the limbs should never be ignored.
Numbness and Tingling Sensations
Pressure on nerves can cause abnormal sensations in different parts of the body.
These may include:
Tingling in the hands or fingers.
Numbness in the legs or feet.
A “pins and needles” sensation.
In addition, these symptoms may worsen if treatment is delayed.
Muscle Weakness
As nerve compression increases, muscles may become weak.
You may notice:
Difficulty lifting objects.
Weak grip strength.
Trouble climbing stairs.
Weakness in the legs or arms.
Consequently, everyday activities may become difficult.
Difficulty Walking or Maintaining Balance
Severe nerve compression can affect coordination and mobility.
Warning signs include:
Unsteady walking.
Loss of balance.
Difficulty standing for long periods.
Frequent stumbling.
These symptoms require prompt medical attention.
Pain That Worsens with Coughing or Sneezing
Many people with a slipped disc notice increased pain when they:
Cough.
Sneeze.
Laugh.
Strain during physical activity.
This happens because these actions temporarily increase pressure around the affected nerve.
Symptoms of Sciatica
Sciatica is one of the most common complications of a slipped disc.
Symptoms include:
Sharp, burning pain down one leg.
Tingling or numbness in the foot.
Weakness in the affected leg.
Pain that worsens while sitting.
Early treatment can help prevent long-term nerve damage.
Emergency Warning Signs
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
✔ Sudden loss of bladder or bowel control.
✔ Severe weakness in the legs.
✔ Numbness around the groin or inner thighs.
✔ Difficulty walking or standing.
✔ Rapid worsening of symptoms.
These signs may indicate cauda equina syndrome, a medical emergency requiring urgent surgery.
Causes and Risk Factors
Several factors can increase the risk of a slipped disc, including:
Age-related degeneration.
Heavy lifting.
Poor posture.
Obesity.
Sedentary lifestyle.
Repetitive strain.
Sudden injuries or falls.
Therefore, maintaining good spine health is essential.
Diagnosis and Treatment at Neurospineone
At Neurospineone, Bhubaneswar, patients receive comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment.
Diagnostic tests may include:
MRI Scan of the Spine.
CT Scan.
Neurological Examination.
X-rays and Advanced Imaging Studies.
Treatment options may include:
Medications and Pain Management.
Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation.
Lifestyle Modifications.
Epidural Injections.
Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery.
Endoscopic Spine Surgery for selected cases.
Dr. Atmaranjan Dash and his team follow AIIMS-level neurosurgical protocols to provide effective and patient-centered care.
Recovery and Prevention
Most patients recover well with timely treatment and proper rehabilitation.
To protect your spine:
Maintain good posture.
Exercise regularly.
Avoid lifting heavy objects improperly.
Maintain a healthy body weight.
Take breaks from prolonged sitting.
Strengthen your back and core muscles.
Contact Information
Dr. Atmaranjan Dash – MCh Neurosurgery (AIIMS New Delhi)
Clinic: Neurospineone, Near SBI ATM, Acharya Vihar, Bhubaneswar, Odisha
Phone: +91 9439971946
Email: atmanranjan@gmail.com
Recognizing the symptoms of a slipped disc early and seeking timely medical attention can help prevent complications and ensure a faster recovery.