Each disc consists of two layers, the inner layer and the outer layer. A slipped disc, also known as a prolapsed or herniated disc, occurs when the inner layer of the disc pushes through a crack or tear in the outer layer. If the slipped disc pushes against a spinal nerve, numbness or pain may be felt along that nerve. Slipped discs can occur in various parts of your spine but are most common in your lower back and neck, also known as a cervical herniated disc.

• Wear and tear: wear and tear on your spinal discs due to ageing and/or repetitive strain are the most common causes of a slipped or herniated disc. This wear and tear can cause discs to weaken, which can lead to the outer layer of the disc bulging or breaking open, resulting in the inner gel-like substance leaking out and putting pressure on nearby nerves, causing pain and discomfort.
• Trauma/injury: in rare cases, sudden trauma or injury can cause slipped discs. 

• Pain in the affected area that can affect other parts of your body over time
• Numbness or tingling in the affected area or other parts of your body
• Muscle weakness or spasms
• Difficulty moving or standing straight
• Loss of bladder or bowel control (severe cases)

The pain can be in your neck, back, arms, or legs and range from mild to severe. Other symptoms may include numbness, tingling or weakness in the affected area(s).

• Age: as we age, our discs become less flexible and more prone to wear and tear, leading to rupture of the outer layer. This allows the inner layer of the disc to leak out through the cracked outer layer, resulting in slipped disc.
• Weight: being overweight or obese increases your risk of a slipped disc. The excess weight puts pressure and strain on the disc, causing the outer layer to rupture, resulting in a herniated disc.
• Sedentary lifestyle: prolonged sitting can increase the pressure on the disc, causing the outer layer to rupture, and the inner layer to seep out. Regular exercise that strengthens your back muscles will reduce the pressure on the discs and thus helps to prevent slipped discs.
• Smoking: research has shown that smoking reduces the oxygen supply to the discs, allowing them to disintegrate more easily.
• Occupation/hobbies: activities that involve heavy lifting, pulling, pushing, or twisting can increase the risk of a slipped disc. 

• Physical examination: during the physical examination, your orthopaedist will ask you to move your legs in various positions while lying flat. This is to check on your range of motion and muscle strength.
• Neurological examination: in addition to the physical examination, your orthopaedist may also conduct a neurological examination to check on your reflexes and your ability to feel vibrations, light touches, and pin pricks. 
• Imaging tests: x-rays, computed tomography scans (CT-scan), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) will be performed to determine the severity and location of the slipped disc and help identify any other underlying conditions that may be causing your symptoms.
• Nerve conduction test: conducted to investigate the receptivity of nerve signals and to identify if any alteration of sensation has occurred.
• Electromyography (EMG): an EMG is often prescribed and would be necessary if an incidence of compressed nerves is suspected.

A proper diagnosis will help determine the most appropriate treatment option for your needs and increase the chances of the treatment being successful.

Treatment options for a slipped disc include:

• Rest: you may require 1 to 2 days of rest to help relieve symptoms.
• Medications: pain relievers, neuropathic drugs, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) will be prescribed to manage pain, nerve impulses, and inflammation.
• Physiotherapy: physiotherapy involves gentle and therapeutic exercises to help improve your range of motion and strengthen your muscles, which can reduce pressure on the affected disc.
• Injections: corticosteroid injections may be administered into your spinal canal or around the nerve roots to help relieve pain and inflammation.
• Surgery: only for severe cases when pain is persistent or if there is a risk of nerve damage.