Slipped disc. Coloured magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of a sagittal (side) section through the lower spine of a patient suffering from a slipped or herniated disc. The central part (dark blue, lower right) of one of the discs that separate the bones (vertebrae, light blue) of the spine has been forced through a weakened area of the disc, and is protruding into the spinal cord (beige strip, top to lower right). A slipped disc often occurs after a back injury or strain, causing back pain. It may compress the nerves of the spinal cord, resulting in tingling or numbness in the feet and legs. Treatment includes rest, anti-inflammatory drugs and physical therapy.