What are the symptoms of a herniated disk?
If the filling of a ruptured disk presses against a nerve, you may feel a sharp, shooting pain that runs from your lower back through your buttocks and down one of your legs. This type of pain is called sciatica. You may also notice signs of nerve damage such as numbness, tingling, and weakness in your legs feet, or buttocks. The pain may be especially severe after any sort of strain, including prolonged periods of sitting or standing. Rarely, the disk may pinch the nerves that control bowel and bladder function, causing incontinence. If the damage has gone this far, then you should seek immediate medical attention.