Sometimes known as a "slipped" or "herniated"disk, a ruptured disk refers to a condition in which pressure is exerted on the nerves in the back by one or more disks, resulting in back pain.

Causes
Disks are soft, rubbery pads found between the hard bones (vertebrae) that make up the spinal column. The spinal column encases the spinal canal, a hollow space that contains the spinal cord and other nerve roots. The disks between the vertebrae allow the back to flex or bend, and function as shock absorbers. Each disk contains a gel-like substance called the nucleus. A disk herniates or ruptures when part of the center nucleus pushes the outer edge of the disk into the spinal canal, exerting pressure on the nerves. Ruptures can occur as a result of injury, normal wear and tear associated with aging, improper lifting and excessive weight.

Symptoms
The most common symptom of a herniated disk is sciatica, a sharp, often shooting pain that extends from the buttocks down the back of one leg. This is caused by pressure on the spinal nerve. Other symptoms may include weakness in one leg; tingling (a "pins-and-needles" sensation) or numbness in one leg; loss of bladder or bowel control; and a burning pain centered in the back

Treatment
Conservative treatment usually works. Bed rest and over-the-counter pain relievers may be all that's needed. Muscle relaxers, analgesic and anti-inflammatory medications are also helpful. You can also apply cold compresses or ice for no more than 20 minutes at a time, several times a day. After any spasms settle, you can switch to gentle heat applications.

If conservative treatment fails, epidural injections of a cortisone-like drug may lessen nerve irritation and allow better participation in physical therapy. These shots are given on an outpatient basis over a period of weeks. In certain very carefully selected cases, the injections may use chymopapain, an enzyme that dissolves portions of the disc so it no longer presses on the nerve. MRI or CT scans (imaging tests to confirm which disk is injured) or an EMG (a test that measures the electrical activity of muscle contractions to show nerve or muscle damage) may be recommended if pain continues. Treatment is available at The Complete Spine Center.

Surgery may be required if a disk fragment lodges in spinal canal and presses on a nerve, causing a loss of function.