What is a Slipped Disc
Slipped Disc is Not a Medical Diagnosis
The term slipped disc is not an actual medical diagnosis. Doctors use it to describe a change in a disc’s shape; it has not slipped or changed position.
Sometimes, when doctors describe a slipped disc, it’s almost cartoonish, because it makes people imagine the disc as a structure that can move like a banana peel or slippery pool toy, rather than being anchored in place.
Each one of your discs is joined to the vertebra above and below via a cartilage endplate, and the outer ring: the annulus fibrosus is a tough ring with fibers that are stitched into the vertebrae. Additionally, the anterior longitudinal ligament runs down the back to limit how far a disc can shift or bulge.
When a doctor uses the informal term slipped disc, the clinical diagnosis is often a herniated disc or a bulging disc.
- Bulging Disc: This is when the disc is stretched or thinned, but is still containing its inner material.
- Herniated Disc: This is when the soft, jelly-like center pushes against or leaks out onto nerves.
Spinal Degeneration Can Be Present Without Pain
Spondylolisthesis, bulging, and herniated discs are all types of spinal degeneration, but having one of these conditions is not an indicator that you will be in pain.
In a systematic literature review of imaging features of spinal degeneration in asymptomatic populations the research indicated that
“Imaging findings of spine degeneration are present in high proportions of asymptomatic individuals, increasing with age. Many imaging-based degenerative features are likely part of normal aging and unassociated with pain.“
Impact of Diagnostic Labeling
Diagnostic labeling is the specific medical terms your doctor uses to name or classify a condition. It names your symptoms and describes them.
For example, after a back scan, your physician might use phrases like “slipped disc” or “spinal degeneration” to describe and define their findings. These labels often feel catastrophic and may lead to increased fear and anxiety, fear of movement, push for invasive treatments, or misinterpret normal or nonthreatening findings.
Because of the unintended negative effects of diagnostic labeling, healthcare providers are supposed to choose their words carefully when speaking to patients.
Everyone makes mistakes, can describe things poorly, and patients can misinterpret what they’re told. These factors can lead to misunderstandings that make you believe your condition is far worse than it is. This can increase your stress and anxiety, which often amplifies pain.
Somatic Labeling
In pain management massage and coaching, somatic labeling helps you transform how you feel by changing the words you use to define and describe your experiences.
In the same way that diagnostic labeling can foster stress, anxiety, and pain, somatic labeling cultivates feelings of safety, peace, and comfort.
Learn more about pain management massage and the Discovering Safety Within approach.
Knowledge Liberates
What is the benefit of knowing that a slipped disc is not a medical diagnosis? It shows how doctors can use phrases that sound far scarier than the actual issue. It reveals how laissez-faire they can be with the accuracy of their descriptions and explanations.
Knowledge liberates; the more you know, the more effective you can be at advocating for yourself. Just because you have a scan that says you have a bulging disc, it doesn’t mean you will be in pain or that you need surgery to remedy a discomfort.
In the research article: Effect of diagnostic labeling on management intentions for non-specific low back pain
“Given the observed impact of labels on management intentions, we think clinicians should check patients’ understanding of labels and their perceptions of what the labels mean for their individual prognosis and management.
For example, patients labeled with degeneration may need reassurance that they do not have a serious condition to reduce any psychological distress or uncertainty. Similarly, patients labeled with a disc bulge may need reassurance that bulges rarely require intervention and are common in asymptomatic people.”
Disclaimer
Information provided on this website, including educational materials, pain neuroscience explanations, treatment suggestions, and any other content shared during sessions, classes, or coaching, is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition, and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
You should always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical concerns. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of information you receive here.
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