Slipped disc. Coloured frontal computed tomography (CT) scan of the lumber spine of a 48 year old with a slipped (herniated) disc. The intervertebral disc (red) above the fourth lumber vertebra has ruptured and is protruding into the spinal canal. This puts pressure on the nerves running along the canal and can result in severe pain and paralysis. Treatment is with physiotherapy and anti-inflammatory drugs, although surgery may be needed in extreme cases.