How Can You Tell If You Have a Herniated Disc? Symptoms & Diagnosis

Author: Mr Oliver Eaton BSc (Hons), PG.Cert – Orthopaedic Specialist
Reviewed by: Mr William Sharples BSc (Hons) – Pain Management Expert
Last Updated: September 2025

In this article, you will find out everything you need to know about herniated discs and the most effective ways to treat it, including an advanced treatment called Prolotherapy.

Introduction

Herniated discs are a leading cause of back and neck pain, affecting millions of people worldwide. But how can you tell if your pain is due to a herniated disc, and what should you do next? This expert guide explains the symptoms, diagnosis, and best treatment options—including prolotherapy—so you can make informed decisions about your health and recovery.

What is a Herniated Disc?

A herniated disc (also called a slipped or ruptured disc) occurs when the soft, gel-like center of a spinal disc pushes through a tear in the tougher outer layer. This can irritate or compress nearby nerves, causing pain, numbness, or weakness in the back, neck, arms, or legs. Herniated discs are most common in the lower back (lumbar spine) but can also occur in the neck (cervical spine).

Symptoms of a Herniated Disc

• Back or neck pain: Often sharp, burning, or aching
• Pain radiating down the arm or leg: Sciatica if in the lower back
• Numbness or tingling: In the affected limb or area
• Muscle weakness: Difficulty lifting the foot, gripping, or walking
• Pain worsened by movement: Coughing, sneezing, or bending
• Difficulty walking or standing for long periods
• Loss of reflexes: In severe cases

Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may develop suddenly or gradually. Some people have no symptoms at all.

Red Flag Symptoms: When to Seek Urgent Help

• Loss of bladder or bowel control
• Severe or rapidly worsening weakness in the legs or arms
• Numbness in the groin or inner thighs (saddle anesthesia)
• Fever, unexplained weight loss, or history of cancer

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

Causes & Risk Factors

• Age-related degeneration: Discs lose water content and flexibility over time
• Repetitive lifting or twisting: Especially with poor technique
• Sudden trauma: Falls, accidents, or heavy lifting
• Obesity: Extra weight increases pressure on the spine
• Genetics: Family history of disc problems
• Smoking: Reduces blood supply to discs
• Sedentary lifestyle: Weakens core and back muscles

Middle-aged adults are most commonly affected¹.

How is a Herniated Disc Diagnosed?

Diagnosis is based on your symptoms, medical history, and a physical examination. Your clinician may:

• Check for nerve involvement (reflexes, strength, sensation)
• Ask about recent injuries, activities, or risk factors
• Order imaging (MRI or CT scan) to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other causes
• Rarely, order nerve tests (EMG) if symptoms are severe or unclear

Early diagnosis and treatment help prevent chronic pain and complications.

Self-Checks & At-Home Screening

• Straight Leg Raise Test: Lie on your back and lift one leg straight up. If this causes pain radiating down your leg, it may indicate a herniated disc.
• Arm or Leg Weakness: Notice if you have trouble lifting your foot, gripping objects, or standing on your toes/heels.
• Numbness or Tingling: Check for areas of reduced sensation in your arms, legs, or buttocks.
• Pain with Coughing or Sneezing: If your pain worsens with these actions, it may be nerve-related.

Note: These self-checks are not a substitute for professional diagnosis. If you suspect a herniated disc, consult a healthcare provider.

Herniated Disc vs. Other Back Problems

A thorough assessment is needed to distinguish between these conditions.

Treatments for Herniated Disc

Most herniated discs heal with conservative care. Key strategies include:

• Rest: Short periods of rest may help, but avoid prolonged bed rest
• Ice and heat: Apply ice for the first 48 hours, then switch to heat to relax muscles
• Gentle movement: Stay as active as possible within pain limits
• Physical therapy: Tailored rehabilitation to restore movement and strength
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): For pain and swelling, as advised by your doctor
• Muscle relaxants or nerve pain medications: For severe or persistent pain
• Epidural steroid injections: For short-term relief in severe cases
• Prolotherapy: See below for details
• Surgery: Rarely needed, only for persistent or severe cases with nerve damage

Recovery Timeline & Prognosis

Most herniated discs improve significantly within 4 to 12 weeks with conservative treatment. About 90% of people experience substantial relief without surgery³. However, recovery time can vary:

• Mild cases: 2-4 weeks
• Moderate cases: 4-12 weeks
• Severe or chronic cases: Several months or longer

Some people may have lingering symptoms or occasional flare-ups, especially if underlying risk factors are not addressed.

Tips for a Faster Recovery

• Follow your treatment plan and attend all therapy sessions
• Maintain a healthy weight and quit smoking
• Practice good posture and ergonomics
• Stay active with low-impact exercise
• Address underlying causes, such as muscle weakness or poor lifting technique

Case Studies

Case Study 1: Prolotherapy for Chronic Herniated Disc

Background: A 48-year-old office worker with a year-long history of lower back pain and sciatica.
Treatment: After three prolotherapy sessions at ProHealth Clinic, pain reduced by 80% and the patient returned to work and exercise within 8 weeks.
Outcome: At 6-month follow-up, the patient remained pain-free and active.

Case Study 2: Exercise and Prolotherapy Combination

Background: A 35-year-old athlete with persistent neck pain and arm numbness failed to improve with physiotherapy alone.
Treatment: After adding prolotherapy and targeted exercises, pain scores dropped from 8/10 to 1/10, and function was fully restored within 2 months.
Outcome: The patient returned to sports and reported no recurrence at 1-year follow-up.

Case Study 3: Rapid Relief in a Manual Worker

Background: A 55-year-old builder developed acute herniated disc after lifting heavy objects.
Treatment: Early intervention with prolotherapy and physiotherapy.
Outcome: Returned to work within 4 weeks, with full pain resolution and no further episodes.