A herniated disk happens when a spinal disk tears. Spinal disks are gel-filled cushions that sit between the bones of the spine (vertebrae). If a disk tears, the center may bulge out. The disk may then press on nearby nerves. This can cause severe pain. Numbness or tingling in an arm or leg may also occur. You may need X-rays of the spine.

If you've had the pain for a few weeks and it is not getting better after treatment, you may need an MRI scan. Treatment for a herniated disk usually involves pain medicines and home care. Surgery is not usually done to treat a herniated disk unless the nerve problem is causing weakness or numbness.