The discs in the spine normally act as a cushion between the vertebrae. A herniated disc is a condition where the soft center of the disc bulges out, or breaks completely through a tear in the fibrous outer wall of the disc. The bulging disc can put pressure on the spinal cord and/or nerve roots causing pain and other symptoms. The condition can be the result of injury to the back, or due to the effects of aging.

Symptoms depend on the location and severity of the herniated disc and can include pain, numbness or tingling in affected areas.

• Learn more about herniated disc disease
• Learn more about sciatica
• Diagnostic tests
• Treatments and procedures