Definition

Noun: A slipped disc is a painful medical condition involving a rupture or protrusion of the soft, cushioning material (fibrocartilage) between the bones (vertebrae) of the spine. This condition most frequently occurs in the lower back (lumbar region).

Usage

The term is used to describe a specific spinal injury or condition, typically in medical or general health contexts. It refers to the physical displacement of the disc material, which can press on nerves and cause pain.

Examples

• Noun:
  • He was diagnosed with a slipped disc after lifting the heavy box incorrectly.
  • The chronic back pain was finally attributed to a slipped disc.
  • Treatment for a slipped disc can range from physical therapy to surgery.

Advanced Usage

• "to have a slipped disc": to be suffering from this condition.
  • She had to take a month off work because she has a slipped disc.
• "caused by a slipped disc": describing the origin of pain or symptoms.
  • The numbness in his leg was caused by a slipped disc.

Variants and Related Words

• Herniated disc (n): A more precise medical synonym for a slipped disc, describing the same condition.
  • The MRI confirmed a herniated disc at L4-L5.
• Prolapsed disc (n): Another clinical term, commonly used in British English, equivalent to a slipped or herniated disc.
  • The doctor referred to the injury as a prolapsed disc.
• Ruptured disc (n): A term emphasizing the tearing of the disc's outer layer.
  • A ruptured disc can cause severe sciatica.

Synonyms

• Herniated disc: The most common direct synonym in medical terminology.
• Prolapsed disc: A synonym frequently used in clinical settings.
• Ruptured disc: A synonym highlighting the tear or break.
• Disc herniation: The general medical term for the condition.

Related Phrases

• Slipped disc surgery: Refers to the surgical procedure to correct the condition.
  • He is recovering well from his slipped disc surgery.
• Slipped disc pain: Describes the pain associated with the condition.
  • She manages her slipped disc pain with medication and exercise.

Noun

1. a painful rupture of the fibrocartilage of the disc between spinal vertebrae; occurs most often in the lumbar region