When the soft, gelatinous central portion of an intervertebral disk
is forced through a weakened part of a disk, it is a condition
known as a slipped disk. Most herniation takes place in the lumbar
area of the spine, and it is one of the most common causes of lower
back pain. The mainstay of treatment for herniated disks is an
initial period of rest with pain and anti-inflammatory medications
followed by physical therapy. If pain and symptoms persist, surgery
to remove the herniated portion of the intervertebral disk is
recommended.
Review Date: 05/25/2010
Reviewed By: A.D.A.M. Editorial Team: David Zieve, MD, MHA, and David R. Eltz.
Previously reviewed by C. Benjamin Ma, MD, Assistant Professor,
Chief, Sports Medicine and Shoulder Service, UCSF Dept of
Orthopaedic Surgery (7/10/2009).
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)
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