The spine is made up of more than 20 bones called vertebrae. Between these there are soft discs that cushion the vertebrae and hold them in place.
A herniated disc is a disc that moves out of place or breaks. If the break presses on a nerve, it can cause radiating pain in the back or leg (sciatica).
Symptoms include:
- Back pain extending into the buttocks and legs, when the herniated disc is located in the lower back.
- Pain in the neck extending to the shoulders and upper arms when the hernia is located in the upper back.
- Tingling or numbness, muscle spasms or weakness.