What it is
The discs sitting between your vertebrae act like shock absorbers. A prolapsed (or "slipped") disc happens when the soft inner gel pushes through the tougher outer ring and presses on a nerve root — most commonly in the lumbar spine.
Condition · Lumbar spine
Disc Prolapse
A prolapsed (slipped) intervertebral disc compressing nerve roots. Learn how it's diagnosed, what to expect, and the keyhole and surgical options.
How it's diagnosed
Diagnosis is usually a combination of:
- A careful history of how the pain behaves
- A physical exam to map the affected nerve
- An MRI to confirm the level and severity
Natural history
Two-thirds of disc prolapses settle on their own within 6–12 weeks. The body slowly resorbs the prolapsed material. Surgery is offered when symptoms persist, when there's progressive weakness, or when imaging shows severe nerve compression.
What we look for in deciding
- How long the symptoms have lasted
- Whether neurological function (strength, reflexes) is affected
- The degree of nerve root compression on MRI
- Your activity goals
If keyhole surgery is the right answer, Mr. Rath performs the procedure through an incision smaller than a fingernail — no muscle stripping, much faster recovery.
Is surgery always needed for a disc prolapse?
No — most resolve with time, physiotherapy, and pain management. Surgery is usually reserved for persistent neurological symptoms or unrelenting pain.
What's the recovery like for endoscopic discectomy?
Most patients walk out the same day and return to light activity within a week.
Discuss your diagnosis with Mr. Rath.
Online and in-clinic consultations available across the North West.
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