A slipped disc, medically known as a herniated or prolapsed disc, occurs when the soft, gel-like center of a spinal disc pushes out through a tear in the tougher exterior. This can irritate nearby nerves and cause pain, numbness, or weakness in an arm or leg, depending on the location of the disc.

While it can occur anywhere along the spine, it’s most common in the lower back (lumbar spine) or neck (cervical spine).