A slipped disk is a back injury in which all or part of the soft center of a spinal disk is forced through a weakened part of the disk.
Other names for this condition are:
- Herniated nucleus pulposus
- Lumbar radiculopathy
- Cervical radiculopathy
- Herniated intervertebral disc
- Prolapsed intervertebral disc
- Ruptured disc
- Slipped disk
The bones (vertebrae) of the spinal column that protect the bundle of nerves (spinal cord) traveling down the back are separated by disks filled with a soft, gelatinous substance. These discs, which provide cushioning for the bones of the spinal column, may herniate (move out of place) or rupture from trauma or strain.
Most herniation takes place in the lower back (lumbar area) of the spine. Lumbar disc herniation occurs 15 times more often than cervical (neck) disc herniation, and it is one of the most common causes of lower back pain. With herniation, nerve roots (large nerves that branch out from the spinal cord) may become compressed, and cause neurological symptoms, such as sensory or motor changes.
Disc herniation occurs more frequently in middle-aged and older men, especially those involved in strenuous physical activity. Other risk factors include any congenital conditions that affect the size of the lumbar spinal canal.
Virtua's Spine Program offers a wide range of surgical and non-surgical treatment options for neck and back conditions. This includes everything from minimally invasive surgery to physical rehabilitation.
Virtua's Spine Program was the first program to be accredited in the Northeast, and only the second to achieve this prestigious recognition nationwide. This award-winning Spine Program is led by a dedicated spine panel comprised of Virtua surgeons who set standards, monitor quality and provide excellent outcomes for patients. Virtua has the only spine program in the region that has earned the prestigious Joint Commission.
Virtua surgeons perform more than 1,000 spine procedures each year. Virtua also emphasizes education for patients and families about rehabilitation and recovery.