By Amy Crompton

Understanding Low Back Pain and Sciatica: Can You Really 'Slip a Disc'?

In our last post, we clarified that not all low back pain and buttock/leg pain equals sciatica. Today, we’re addressing a common concern many people have: "I think I must have slipped a disc."

First and foremost, let's put your mind at ease—it’s not actually possible to ‘slip’ a disc. The term can create unnecessary fear and misunderstanding about spinal health. To help clarify, let’s take a closer look at the anatomy of the spine and what really happens when discs are involved in pain conditions.

Understanding the Structure of a Disc

Spinal discs are composed of three essential components:

• Nucleus Pulposus – A gel-like center that helps absorb shock.
• Annulus Fibrosus – A tough outer ring of connective tissue providing structural integrity.
• Endplate – A cartilaginous layer that connects the disc to the vertebrae above and below.

Common Disc-Related Conditions

You may have heard of several terms used to describe disc issues, including:

• Disc Bulge – When part of the disc pushes out beyond the vertebra, potentially causing irritation to nearby structures.
• Disc Herniation – A condition where the nucleus pulposus protrudes through the annulus fibrosus. This is further classified into three types, depending on the degree of herniation. In some cases, a disc herniation may compress a nerve and lead to sciatica, characterised by radiating pain down the leg.

Is My Pain Caused by a Disc Issue?

While discs can become pain-sensitive due to inflammation or degenerative changes (commonly known as ‘wear and tear’), it’s important to remember that disc-related pain doesn’t always mean you have a herniation or bulge. In fact, there are many other potential causes of low back pain and sciatica-like symptoms, such as muscular imbalances, joint dysfunction, and nerve entrapments.

Don’t Fear Your Discs – The Body Heals!

Discs don’t have to be a source of fear—our bodies have an incredible ability to heal and adapt. As osteopaths, we focus on understanding the 'why' behind your pain, not just the 'what', to provide a tailored approach to your recovery.

How Osteopathy Can Help with Low Back Pain and Sciatica

Osteopathy offers a holistic approach to managing low back pain and sciatica by addressing not only the affected area but also the underlying causes. Treatment may include:

• Soft tissue techniques to alleviate muscle tension.
• Joint mobilisation to restore movement and reduce stiffness.
• Exercise prescription to support long-term recovery and prevent recurrence.

If you're unsure whether osteopathy can help with your back pain, feel free to contact the clinic and request a call back from Amy. Remember, osteopaths treat much more than just back pain—we cover everything from head to toe!

Take the First Step Towards Pain Relief

If you're struggling with low back pain or sciatica, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice. Understanding the true nature of your condition is the first step toward effective treatment and recovery.

For more insights into back pain management, follow our page and stay informed on how osteopathy can help you stay pain-free and active.