Few phrases cause more worry than “you’ve got a slipped disc”. It sounds like something has come loose and could give way at any moment. The reality is far less dramatic, and far more hopeful, than most people fear.
What is a herniated disc?
Between the bones of your spine sit discs that act as cushions. A herniated, or “slipped”, disc is when part of a disc bulges out and can press on or irritate a nearby nerve. Nothing has actually slipped out of place, and the spine is still stable. It’s an irritation, not a collapse.
What does it feel like?
- Back pain, sometimes with sharp pain, tingling or numbness down a leg (sciatica)
- Symptoms that can be worse with sitting, bending or coughing
- Occasionally weakness in the leg or foot
Not every herniated disc even causes symptoms, which is an important clue about how they behave.
Do herniated discs heal?
Yes, and this surprises people. The large majority settle over weeks to months without surgery. The body gradually reabsorbs the bulging material and calms the irritation. Scans taken later often show the herniation has shrunk or disappeared, even when the person feels completely better. Time, movement and the right guidance do most of the work.
Do I need surgery?
Usually not. Surgery is reserved for a small minority with severe, persistent nerve problems or specific serious signs. For most people, conservative treatment works well and avoids the risks of an operation. Rushing to surgery for a herniation that would have healed anyway is a common regret.
How does a physiotherapist help?
A physiotherapist can use manual therapy to calm the irritated nerve, guide the specific movements that ease pressure and settle symptoms, keep you moving safely, and rebuild the strength and control that protect your back going forward. The goal is a full, lasting recovery, not just short-term relief.
Frequently asked questions
Is a herniated disc permanent?
No. Most heal, and the body often reabsorbs the herniation over time.
Should I avoid all exercise?
No. Complete rest usually makes things worse. The right, guided movement is part of the treatment.
Can it come back?
It can, but building good strength and movement habits makes that much less likely.
If you’ve been told you have a slipped or herniated disc, it’s far more treatable than it sounds. A physiotherapist can guide your recovery and help you avoid unnecessary surgery. You can book a session here.
Want to live longer, and feel better while doing it?
Twice a week I share practical, physiotherapy-backed insights on longevity, movement and healthspan — no fads, just what actually works.
Marcos Jusdado is a physiotherapist and osteopath at Craft Clinic, The Ritz-Carlton DIFC, in the heart of Dubai. With 9 years of experience and over 12,000 sessions, he specialises in sport physiotherapy, functional neurology (P-DTR), vestibular rehabilitation and chronic pain, working with everyone from DIFC professionals to athletes. His approach focuses on finding the root cause of pain rather than just treating the symptoms.
