| an abnormal protrusion of a spinal disk between vertebrae, most often in the lumbar region of the spine, causing pain due to pressure on spinal nerves. |
| slipped disk (slĭpt) n. Protrusion of a part of an intervertebral disk through the fibrocartilage, occurring usually in the lower lumbar region and often causing back pain or sciatica. |
herniated disk n.
The protrusion of a degenerated or fragmented intervertebral disk into the intervertebral foramen, compressing the nerve root. Also called protruded disk, ruptured disk.
slipped disk n.
Protrusion of a part of an intervertebral disk through the fibrocartilage, occurring usually in the lower lumbar region and often causing back pain or sciatica.
slipped disk
displacement of part of the rubbery centre, or nucleus, of a cartilaginous disk from between the vertebrae so that it presses against the spinal cord. Pain occurs in the arms if the protrusion occurs at the level of the neck (between the fifth and sixth or sixth and seventh cervical vertebrae) or in the lower back and legs if the protrusion occurs low in the backbone (usually between the fourth and fifth lumbar vertebrae or between the fifth lumbar and first sacral vertebrae). Treatment, depending on the severity of the condition, may include bed rest, analgesic medication (e.g., aspirin), traction, orthopedic support, and physical therapy or surgical removal of the protruded portion of the disk and fusion of the spinal vertebrae at the point affected.
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