What is a lumbar disk herniation?

A lumbar disk herniation, also known as a slipped disk or ruptured disk, is a medical condition that occurs when the soft, jelly-like center (nucleus pulposus) of an intervertebral disk in the lower back (lumbar spine) protrudes or ruptures through a tear in the tough outer layer (annulus fibrosus).

Disk herniations can occur in any part of the spine but are most common in the lower back. They often put pressure on nearby nerves, causing pain, numbness, and weakness in the back, buttocks, and one or both legs. The symptoms of a lumbar disk herniation can vary depending on the location and severity of the herniated disk and the nerves affected.

Lumbar disk herniations are relatively common, affecting up to 2% of adults yearly. They are more prevalent in people between the ages of 30 and 50 and are more common in men than women. Various factors can contribute to the development of lumbar disk herniations, including aging, lifting heavy objects improperly, obesity, smoking, and certain genetic predispositions.

Treatment for a lumbar disk herniation typically involves conservative measures, such as rest, pain medication, physical therapy, and epidural steroid injections. Surgery is considered if conservative treatments fail to provide relief.