The vertebral bodies are separated by spinal discs which have a soft, gelatinous center (nucleus) encapsulated in a harder and rubbery exterior (ring). Sometimes called a slipped disc or ruptured disc, a herniated disc occurs when part of the nucleus is pushed out through a tear in the annulus.

A herniated disc can occur in any part of the spine, being more frequent in the cervical and lumbar region.

Symptoms can be:

Pain: If the herniated disc is in the cervical spine, you will feel pain in the neck, shoulder or arm.

Numbness or tingling: People who have a herniated disc often have numbness or tingling that radiates into the part of the body served by the affected nerves.

Weakness: The muscles served by the affected nerves tend to weaken. This can cause you to stumble or affect your ability to lift or hold objects.