herniated disk

herniated disk A disk, situated between two vertebrae, that protrudes and tends to press on a nerve root, causing radiating pain. A herniated disk may cause sciatica (pain in the lower back, leg, and behind the knee). Treatment options include use of anti-inflammatory medications, local injection of steroids, and surgical procedures. Also known as herniated disc, slipped disk or disc, prolapsed disk or disc, and ruptured disc or disk.