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Slipped disc
Reviewed by Mr Dai Rees, consultant and orthopaedic surgeon and Dr John Pillinger, GP
How does the doctor make a diagnosis?
It is possible to make a diagnosis from the patient's history and the doctor's physical examination.
In many cases it is possible to determine which disc is affected. This can be confirmed either by a CT scan, MRI scan or a myelography - an injection into the spinal cord canal.
The doctor will decide which examination is necessary.
An ordinary X-ray of the spine is usually taken as well, but is much less use diagnostically than a scan or myelogram.
It is important to make a correct diagnosis because several other diseases have similar symptoms. Any 'red flag' symptoms must be acted upon without delay.
How is a slipped disc treated?
It is generally agreed that a slipped disc should be treated conservatively, with surgery being considered only when other approaches to treatment have failed.
The treatment will typically mean a brief period of bed-rest with appropriate painkillers. Physiotherapy or chiropractic treatment should also be explored.
Whether to have an operation or not, is a decision for a specialist.
When there are changes in the symptoms, a doctor should be consulted. Significant changes in bladder habits or control, increasing paralysis of the limbs or muscle spasticity should always receive immediate medical assessment.
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