Lumbar Disc Prolapse
A lumbar disc prolapse or herniation, commonly known as slipped disc, ruptured disc, or prolapsed disc, occurs when part of a disc in the lower back moves beyond its normal position and may irritate or compress a nearby nerve.
It can cause lower back pain, pain travelling into the buttock or leg, numbness or weakness. Symptoms vary depending on the location of the herniated disc and the degree of nerve involvement.
At Aster Hospitals, our experienced spine specialists and neurosurgeons plan treatment according to the patient's symptoms, examination findings and imaging results. Depending on the condition, lumbar disc prolapse care may include medication, physiotherapy, activity modification or surgery when clinically indicated.
The lumbar spine contains discs between the vertebrae that help absorb movement and reduce stress on the spine. Changes in the disc caused by ageing, injury or repeated strain can lead to a tear or weakening of its outer layer. The inner material may then protrude through the affected area.
Some disc herniations cause no symptoms, while others can press on a spinal nerve and cause pain or neurological symptoms affecting the leg.
Symptoms depend on the affected disc and whether a nerve is compressed. Common symptoms may include:
New or worsening weakness, difficulty walking, or loss of bladder or bowel control requires urgent medical assessment at our neurosurgery hospital.
A doctor will review the patient's symptoms, medical history and the circumstances surrounding their onset. A physical examination may assess spinal movement, muscle strength, sensation and reflexes.
MRI is commonly used when imaging is required because it can show the discs, spinal nerves and surrounding structures. Other investigations may be considered when the symptoms or clinical findings suggest an alternative cause.
The lumbar disc herniation treatment plan depends on symptom severity, nerve involvement and how the condition affects daily activities. Many patients improve with non-surgical management, which may include:
The treatment of lumbar disc herniation or slipped disc is not determined by an MRI scan alone. Clinicians consider clinical symptoms and examination findings alongside imaging.
Lumbar disc herniation surgery may be considered when significant symptoms continue despite appropriate non-surgical treatment or when persistent nerve compression causes neurological problems. Procedures may involve removing the part of the disc pressing on the nerve to relieve compression.
The need for lumbar disc herniation surgery in Dubai depends on the patient's individual condition. A specialist can discuss the expected benefits, possible risks and recovery requirements before recommending an operation.
At Aster Hospitals, patients with lumbar disc problems can receive assessment and treatment planning based on their individual needs. Spine treatment at our neurosurgery hospital includes:
Book an appointment if you or a family member are comparing a lumbar disc herniation hospital in Dubai and can consult with the spine care team at Aster Hospitals to discuss symptoms and treatment options.
Our experienced and board-certified neurosurgeons, spine specialists, physiatrists and pain management team assess symptoms associated with lumbar disc herniation and review relevant imaging to determine the most suitable treatment approach.
The consultation may include discussion of non-surgical care, rehabilitation and factors that may influence recovery. When surgery is recommended, a lumbar disc herniation surgeon will explain the proposed procedure, expected recovery, possible risks, and postoperative care.
Yes. Many patients improve with medication, physiotherapy, activity modification and rehabilitation. Surgery is considered when symptoms persist, or neurological problems require intervention.
No. Some disc herniations do not cause noticeable symptoms. Treatment decisions are based on symptoms, clinical examination and imaging findings rather than the scan alone.
Specialist assessment for lumbar disc herniation or slipped disc is advisable when pain persists, symptoms extend into the leg, or numbness or weakness develops despite initial treatment.
Yes. A herniated lumbar disc can compress a spinal nerve and cause weakness in the leg or foot. New or worsening weakness should be assessed promptly.
Recovery after a lumbar disc herniation surgery and treatment varies between patients. Many improve over several weeks with appropriate non-surgical treatment, while persistent or severe symptoms may require specialist assessment.
Last updated: 13-10-2026
We all want a smile that we can wear with pride. However, sometimes we can lose our natural, beautiful smiles for several reasons. Maybe you chipped a tooth on a hard piece of food, your morning coffee has finally caught up with…
Laparoscopic surgery, or keyhole surgery, is a technique that helps to treat a variety of abdominal and pelvic conditions while minimising damage to surrounding tissues. Rather than a single large incision, surgeons work through…
Asthma is one of the most common reasons people turn to respiratory care, yet it's often under-diagnosed and under-treated, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
When asthma goes under-treated, people can end up…
Chemical peels are a common cosmetic dermatology treatment. While they often target harmless concerns like mild uneven skin tone, they can also treat serious issues. These include precancerous growths or severe acne scarring. As…
Melasma is a common skin condition that causes brown or grey patches on the face, especially on areas exposed to the sun. Although it is not harmful, it can be difficult to treat and often returns. Because hormones and sun…
Kidney damage often develops gradually and may go unnoticed until it has progressed. It is one of the most common reasons people develop chronic health issues. While it may result from underlying medical conditions such as…
Feeling unusually short of breath or becoming tired after simple everyday activities is not always a normal part of ageing. While these symptoms can have many causes, they may also indicate a problem with your heart. One possible…
Your heart depends on a steady flow of oxygen-rich blood to keep working properly. When the arteries that supply your heart become blocked, simple daily activities can suddenly become difficult, and symptoms like chest pain or…
Mental preparation for heart surgery can be worrying, and it is natural to wonder what life will be like after a Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) surgery. They are concerned about recovery time, when they can return to…
Most people do not realise they have an aortic aneurysm due to its silent nature until it is found during a routine scan or starts causing symptoms. As the weakened area in the artery grows, it can be life-threatening if left…
