Skip to content
WebMD: Better information. Better health.
 
Other search tools:Symptoms|Doctors|Medical Dictionary

Back Pain Health Center

Tools & Resources

Font Size
A
A
A

Herniated Disc (Cross Section)

Illustration copyright 2004 by Nucleus Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. http://www.nucleusinc.com

The bones (vertebrae) that form the spine (backbone) are cushioned by small, round, flat discs. When these discs are damaged from an injury, normal wear and tear, or disease, they may bulge abnormally or break open. This is called a herniated or slipped disc. If the herniated disc presses on a nerve root, it may cause pain, numbness, or tingling.

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Robert B. Keller, MD - Orthopedics
Last Revised July 21, 2010

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: July 21, 2010
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.
© 1995-2011 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

Today in Back Pain

back pain myths slideshow
Slideshow
Get the Facts About Back Pain
woman with lower back pain
Quiz
Low Back Pain: What Do You Know?
 
man on cellphone
Slideshow
Surprising Reasons You're in Pain
acupuncture needles in woman's back
Slideshow
Acupuncture for Pain Relief
 

woman stretching to touch toes
Article
Yoga for Lower Back Pain
pain in brain and nerves
Slideshow
Chronic Pain: Get Relief
 
Chronic Pain Healtcheck
Health Check
Coping With Chronic Pain?
break at desk
Article
Back Pain Dos and Don'ts
 

Woman holding lower back
Slideshow
Sciatica: Symptoms and Treatments
Weight Loss Surgery
Slideshow
Should You Consider Weight Loss Surgery?
 
lumbar spine
Slideshow
What's Causing Your Low Back Pain?
back pain
Article
Breast Reduction Surgery: What to Know