Understanding Slip Disc: Causes, Symptoms, And Treatment

Dr. Pallav, Consultant Spine Surgeon at Lokmanya Group of Hospitals, Pune, shares insights on the commonly seen issue of slip disc. Around 80% of OPD patients report slip disc-related problems, making it a significant concern in both rural and urban populations.

Anatomy of the Spine

To understand slip disc, one must first know the spine’s anatomy. The spine is made of vertebrae (bones) and intervertebral discs (soft structures between bones). These discs lie adjacent to the spinal cord and nerves, which control different muscles of the body. When a nerve is affected, it can lead to issues in its corresponding muscle.

What is a Slip Disc?

A slip disc occurs when the disc between the vertebrae protrudes out due to pressure or degeneration. In rural populations like farmers, frequent bending and lifting cause stress on the spine. In urban areas, sedentary lifestyles lead to early degeneration of discs, resulting in slip disc issues as early as the 20s and 30s.

Common Causes of Slip Disc

• Sedentary lifestyle and lack of physical activity
• Obesity, which increases spinal pressure
• Improper posture during weight lifting
• Household work involving excessive forward bending, especially in women
  
  These factors contribute to disc prolapse and the increasing prevalence of slip disc cases in younger individuals.

Symptoms to Watch For

Slip disc usually begins with back pain. Initially, the pain may seem muscular, but it can progress to leg pain, numbness, weakness, or even difficulty in walking. In severe cases, it may affect urinary and bowel functions. Early symptoms should not be ignored, and proper medical evaluation is necessary.

Treatment Without Surgery

There is a common misconception that slip disc always requires surgery. Dr. Pallav clarifies that 80-90% of patients do not need surgery if diagnosed and treated early. Physiotherapy, prescribed exercises, and medications can help manage the condition effectively.

Spine Injections as an Alternative

In some cases, a Transforaminal Root Block (spine injection) is administered. Under imaging guidance, a steroid injection is placed near the affected nerve. This helps reduce inflammation and avoids surgery in many cases when done at the right time.

Surgical Intervention for Severe Cases

If symptoms progress to severe leg weakness, numbness, or urinary issues, surgery may be needed. Unlike traditional open surgeries, endoscopic spine surgery is now commonly performed. It minimizes complications and allows patients to walk the same or next day with minimal postoperative pain.

Conclusion

Slip disc is manageable and often treatable without surgery if addressed early. With advancements like endoscopic spine surgery, even severe cases can recover quickly. For concerns or queries, Dr. Pallav encourages patients to reach out via WhatsApp or the comment section.

FAQs

1. What is a slip disc?
A slip disc occurs when the soft cushion-like disc between spinal bones protrudes out and presses on nearby nerves.
2. Who is more prone to slip disc?
People with sedentary lifestyles, those lifting weights improperly, obese individuals, and homemakers involved in frequent bending are more prone.
3. What are the early symptoms of slip disc?
It usually starts with back pain, which may progress to leg pain, numbness, or weakness.
4. Does a slip disc always require surgery?
No, around 80–90% of cases can be treated with physiotherapy, medication, and exercises without surgery.
5. What is a Transforaminal Root Block?
It is a spine injection given near the affected nerve under imaging guidance to relieve symptoms and avoid surgery.
6. What type of surgery is done for slip disc?
Endoscopic spine surgery is performed, which is minimally invasive and allows faster recovery.
7. How soon can one walk after endoscopic spine surgery?
Most patients can walk the same day or the next day after surgery and resume normal activities quickly.