Accident & Injury Center

Herniated discs are often referred to as slipped discs. This term is derived from the action of the center nucleus tissue when it is forced outward. The disc itself doesn't slip. However, the nucleus tissues in the heart of the disc can be placed under so much pressure that the outer ring of cartilage, the annulus, ruptures against one or more of the spinal nerves. This can cause pain, numbness, or weakness in the lower back, leg or foot. Other names used for herniated discs are prolapsed, bulging, or ruptured.