BACK PAIN FROM SLIPPED OR PROLAPSED DISC

One of the medical condition that can cause back pain is slipped or prolapsed disc (a disc of cartilage in the spine pressing on a nerve) – this can cause back pain and numbness, tingling and weakness in other parts of the body.

A slipped disc is when a soft cushion of tissue between the bones in the spine pushes out. It’s painful if it presses on nerves. It usually gets better slowly with rest, gentle exercise and painkillers.

HOW TO EASE THE PAIN FROM SLIPPED DISC?

KEEP ACTIVE
If the pain is very bad, you may need to rest at first. But start gentle exercise as soon as you can – it will help you get better faster. The type of exercise is not important, just gradually increase your activity level.

TAKE PAINKILLERS
Take pain killers regularly (up to the recommended daily amount) rather than just when the pain is particularly bad. This will help you to keep moving.

WHEN TO SEE THE DOCTOR?

See your doctor when:

• your painkillers are not helping
• the pain is no better after a month
• you have a very high temperature or you feel hot and shivery
• you have unexplained weight loss
• you have swelling in your back
• the pain is worse at night