A herniated disc occurs when the intervertebral disc's outer fibers (the annulus) are damaged and the soft inner material of the nucleus pulposus ruptures out of its normal space.

Symptom FAQs

Q. How can my neck be the problem when I feel the pain in my arm?

Q. After I retired last year, my wife and I began walking for exercise to help the back problem I have had for years. I have noticed over the past few months that I get a burning pain in my legs after walking about 10 minutes. It goes away if I rest but then comes back again. Is this something I should be worried about?

Q. When will the pain in my spine go away?

Q. Are there any serious signs or conditions I should know about?

Q. My doctor said my X-rays showed that a vertebra in my low back is slipping forward. Will this get worse and will my spine eventually slip off?

Q. Part of my hand feels numb and my arm just doesn't seem as strong as it should. Could this be from a pinched nerve?

Q. Both my parents have osteoarthritis. Does the pain in my upper back mean that I'm getting it too?

Q. I hear a crunching noise when I turn my neck. Is this bad? Should I have it checked?

Q. I've had back pain off and on for years. Why does it keep coming back?

Q. I just turned 48 and my husband noticed that my upper back is starting to become rounded in appearance. Why is this, and will my posture continue to get worse?

Q. Are there other medical professionals who may be able to help me deal with my chronic spine pain?

Q. My MRI Scan showed that I have a bulging disc in my lower back. Should I see a spine specialist?

Q. I can't get comfortable in bed. Do I need a special mattress or pillow?