Herniated or Slipped Disc
A herniated disc most commonly affects those aged 30 to 50, with the problem affecting men twice as often women. The condition tends to run in families.
What is a herniated disc?
A herniated or slipped disc occurs when the soft inner gel of a spinal disc pushes through the outer layer, irritating nearby nerves. This can cause back or neck pain, sciatica, arm pain, numbness, or weakness.
Types of herniated disc include protrusion, extrusion, and sequestration.
What are the causes of a herniated disc?
Disc herniation may result from age-related degeneration, sudden strain or lifting injuries, repetitive twisting, poor posture, trauma, or genetic susceptibility.
How is a herniated disc diagnosed?
Dr Hussien El-Maghraby will assess your symptoms, mobility, and neurological function. MRI scans provide detailed images of disc herniation and nerve compression, while X-rays may rule out other spinal issues. Nerve conduction studies can be used in selected cases.
How is a herniated disc treated?
Dr El-Maghraby will discuss your symptoms and develop a personalised plan. Initial treatment often includes physiotherapy, guided exercise, activity modification, and anti-inflammatory medication.
Minimally invasive options for a herniated disc include epidural steroid injections, selective nerve root blocks, Percutaneous Laser Disc Decompression (PLDD), and microdiscectomy for persistent symptoms. The aim is to relieve nerve pressure, reduce pain, and restore function while avoiding major surgery when possible.
Dr Hussien El-Maghraby,
experienced spinal surgeon
With over 20 years of UK consultant neurosurgery experience, Dr Hussien El-Maghraby is a leading spinal surgeon based in the heart of London.
Dr El-Maghraby specialises exclusively in minimally invasive spine care, offering modern, patient-centred treatments for back pain, neck pain and spinal disorders – from laser disc decompression to advanced injections, cement augmentation and 3D/AI-guided spinal decompression.
Understanding the needs of international patients, Dr El-Maghraby places special emphasis on serving people from the Middle East visiting London for treatment – offering clear communication, compassionate care, and expert spinal surgery under UK standards.