A herniated disk is a common injury that can affect any part of the spine. It can cause severe back pain and other problems in the arms or legs.
Vertebral discs are flexible, rubbery cushions that support the vertebral bones. Each disc has a jelly-like center (nucleus) that is surrounded by a tough outer ring (annulus). A disc herniates when its nucleus pushes against the outer ring and puts pressure on the sensitive spinal nerves, causing back pain.
Some herniated discs cause no symptoms, and a person may not realize the disc is damaged. But a herniated disc can also cause severe back pain, numbness or tingling, and weakness. Most herniated discs occur in the lower back, where they can cause symptoms in the buttocks, legs, and feet. Herniated discs also occur in the neck, where they can cause symptoms in the shoulders, arms, and hands.
