Do I need surgery for a slipped disc?

Only about 5-10% of slipped disc cases require surgery. Most respond well to conservative physiotherapy within 6-12 weeks.

What makes a slipped disc worse?

Forward bending, prolonged sitting, heavy lifting, and twisting movements can aggravate disc pain. We teach you how to modify these activities.

Can a slipped disc heal on its own?

The body can reabsorb the herniated disc material over time. Physiotherapy helps manage symptoms and creates the right conditions for healing while preventing complications.

Slip Disc / PIVD

A slipped disc, also known as prolapsed or herniated disc (PIVD), occurs when the soft inner core of a spinal disc pushes through the outer layer, potentially compressing nearby nerves. This can cause significant pain, numbness, and weakness. The good news is that most cases respond well to non-surgical treatment.

At Actilife, we provide comprehensive conservative management for disc problems. Our approach includes pain-relieving techniques, specific postural and movement strategies to reduce disc pressure, and a graded exercise program to strengthen spinal support muscles.

Ready to Find Relief?

Book a consultation with our expert physiotherapists and start your recovery journey.

How Physiotherapy Helps

Nerve Decompression

Specific positioning and traction techniques to reduce pressure on affected nerves.

Pain Management

Manual therapy and modalities to reduce pain during the acute phase.

Postural Correction

Education on spine-sparing postures for sitting, standing, and sleeping.

Core Strengthening

Building deep spinal stabilizer muscles to protect the disc long-term.

Avoiding Surgery

Evidence-based conservative care that helps most patients avoid surgical intervention.

Related Exercises

Exercises that can help manage slip disc / pivd.

Ankle Pumps

beginner

A simple circulatory exercise to prevent blood clots and maintain ankle mobility after surgery or prolonged bed rest.

View exercise

Core Stabilization

beginner

A foundational exercise to strengthen the deep abdominal and back muscles that support the spine. Essential for back pain prevention and rehabilitation.

View exercise

Glute Bridge

beginner

A foundational strengthening exercise for the glutes, hamstrings, and lower back. Essential for core stability and hip health.

View exercise

McKenzie Extension

beginner

A therapeutic exercise to centralise and reduce radiating pain from disc bulges and herniations. Performed lying face down, this exercise helps shift disc material away from nerves.

View exercise