Fragments of a ruptured disc may break completely free of the disc and lodge in the spinal canal. Any of these stages can cause pressure on a nerve root and symptoms of pain and numbness. Often, herniated discs heal on their own as the nucleus material is broken down and absorbed by the body, a process called resorption . If nonsurgical treatment does not work, symptoms caused by a damaged disc may get worse. Pain may come and go.
Symptoms caused by long-term nerve root compression can develop.
These symptoms include loss of agility, strength, or feeling in one or both legs and feet. Along with physical problems, a person may have emotional problems such as depression that result from having ongoing pain. This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information. For more information, click here .