Key Takeaways:
- Slipped disc symptoms often differ from muscle strain by causing pain that radiates into the arms or legs
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness may indicate nerve involvement rather than simple back pain
- Pain that persists for more than a few weeks or worsens with movement should not be ignored
- Imaging tests are usually considered only when symptoms suggest nerve compression or do not improve
Back pain is common, but not all back pain is the same. Many people in Singapore wonder whether their discomfort is due to posture, muscle strain, or something more structural like a slipped disc. Understanding slipped disc symptoms can help you decide when it’s time to seek medical assessment rather than brushing the pain aside.
What Exactly Is a Slipped Disc?
A slipped disc, also called a disc herniation, occurs when the soft inner part of a spinal disc pushes through its outer layer. This can irritate nearby nerves, leading to pain and other symptoms.
Unlike muscle-related back pain, slipped disc symptoms often:
- Follow a nerve pathway
- Extend beyond the back
- Persist despite rest
What Are the Common Slipped Disc Symptoms?
Slipped disc symptoms vary depending on which part of the spine is affected. Some common slipped disc symptoms for,
Lower back (lumbar spine):
- Pain radiating from the lower back into the buttock or leg
- Tingling or numbness in the leg or foot
- Weakness when walking or standing
Neck (cervical spine):
- Pain spreading from the neck into the shoulder or arm
- Pins-and-needles sensation in the hand or fingers
- Reduced grip strength
You should always keep in mind that symptoms that persist or progress should not be ignored.
Can a Slipped Disc Cause Numbness or Weakness?
Yes. When a disc presses on a nerve, it can disrupt nerve signals. This may lead to ongoing numbness, muscle weakness, or difficulty lifting items or keeping your balance. These signs suggest nerve involvement and should be assessed further.
How Is a Slipped Disc Diagnosed?
Diagnosis usually involves:
- A clinical assessment of movement, strength, and reflexes
- Imaging tests such as MRI scans, if indicated
Not all back pain requires scans. Imaging is typically recommended only when symptoms suggest nerve compression or do not improve with time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can slipped disc symptoms go away on their own?
Mild cases may improve with time, rest and activity changes. Ongoing or worsening symptoms should be checked.
2. Is leg pain always a sign of a slipped disc?
Not always, but leg pain with numbness or weakness may point to nerve involvement.
3. Do I need surgery for a slipped disc?
Many cases don’t require surgery. Treatment depends on how severe the symptoms are and how well they respond to conservative care.
4. Can long hours of sitting cause a slipped disc?
Long periods of sitting, especially with poor posture, can add stress to the spine, but it’s usually one of several contributing factors.
When Should I Consider Seeing a Doctor?
It may be appropriate to consult a doctor if:
- Pain lasts longer than 2–3 weeks
- Symptoms worsen instead of improving
- There is numbness, weakness, or difficulty walking
- Daily activities are affected
Early evaluation helps clarify the cause and guide appropriate management without delay.
Why Your Back Pain Needs Proper Assessment
If you are experiencing ongoing back pain or slipped disc symptoms that affect your daily life, a structured assessment can provide clarity and reassurance.
At Center For Orthopaedics, patients in Singapore can receive evaluation focused on identifying the cause of back pain and understanding suitable next steps. Booking a consultation allows you to address symptoms early and make informed decisions about your spine health—before discomfort turns into limitation.
