Herniated Disk: Symptoms, Causes, Treatments, and Natural Approaches

About 3 million Americans experience a herniated, or ‘slipped,’ disk annually.

Herniated, or slipped, disks usually occur between ages 30 and 50. Illustration by Lumi Liu

Herniated, or slipped, disks usually occur between ages 30 and 50. Illustration by Lumi Liu

A herniated (slipped) intervertebral disk is a spinal condition where the annulus fibrosus (the outer layer of a spinal disk) becomes damaged, allowing the nucleus pulposus (the inner gel-like core) to protrude through the weakened area. This displacement can place pressure on nearby nerves or the spinal cord, potentially causing pain and impairing spinal cord function.

Approximately 2 percent to 3 percent of Americans experience a herniated disk every year.