Slipped Disc Treatment Southampton | Herniated Disc Physio
Can a slipped disc heal without surgery?
Most slipped discs improve with physiotherapy and do not require surgery.
Introduction
Hearing the words “slipped disc” can feel worrying. Many people imagine it means their back is fragile or damaged for good. The truth is more hopeful. Most disc problems improve naturally and, with the right support, people often return to full activity without ever needing surgery.
At Southampton Physio, our team of physiotherapists and osteopaths specialise in helping people recover from back and leg pain caused by disc issues. By combining hands-on care, exercise rehabilitation and clear guidance, we support you to move with confidence again.
What is a slipped disc?
A “slipped disc” is a common term for what clinicians call a disc herniation or disc prolapse. The discs in your spine are like shock absorbers: soft cushions between the bones (vertebrae) that help you bend and move. Sometimes, the softer inside of the disc can push out slightly, creating a bulge.
This doesn’t mean the disc has literally “slipped out of place”. Instead, part of it presses on nearby structures, sometimes irritating a nerve. That’s why some people feel pain in the back while others feel symptoms travelling down the leg – often called sciatica.
It’s important to know that disc changes are very common. Research shows that many people with no pain at all have disc bulges on MRI scans. In other words: disc changes don’t always equal pain. For those who do get symptoms, the good news is that discs can calm down over time. Movement, strength training and lifestyle changes are usually the best way forward.
Symptoms and when to seek help
The main symptoms of a slipped or herniated disc can include:
- Pain in the lower back, sometimes sharp or aching
- Pain spreading into the buttock or down the leg (sciatica)
- Tingling, pins and needles or numbness in the leg or foot
- Muscle weakness in the leg
For many people, these symptoms improve with time, movement and rehabilitation. But there are times when you should seek urgent help. Red flag symptoms that need immediate medical attention include:
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Numbness around the groin or saddle area
- Severe or rapidly worsening weakness in the legs
These signs can indicate a serious condition called cauda equina syndrome, which requires urgent hospital care. If you experience them, call NHS 111 or go to A and E straight away.
For everyone else, physiotherapy is usually the safest and most effective first step. The earlier you start moving under guidance, the sooner you can begin recovery.
How physiotherapy helps recovery
Physiotherapy is one of the most effective first-line treatments for slipped or herniated discs. It doesn’t just focus on easing pain in the short term – it gives you the tools to rebuild strength and prevent flare-ups in the future.
At Southampton Physio, our approach combines:
- Education and reassurance: Understanding that discs can heal helps reduce fear and stress, both of which can amplify pain.
- Active rehabilitation: Guided exercises to restore mobility, build strength and improve control of movement.
- Hands-on care where helpful: Manual therapy, massage or joint mobilisation can provide short-term relief and make it easier to get moving.
- Lifestyle support: Advice on sleep, stress, posture variety and activity pacing. These factors play a big role in how your body recovers.
Our clinicians also track progress over time. We use objective tools such as strength testing and movement assessments to show improvements clearly, giving you confidence that you’re on the right track.
Physiotherapy is about more than pain relief – it’s about restoring your independence and helping you trust your back again.
Treatment options we use
Every slipped disc is different, so treatment plans are tailored to your situation, symptoms and goals. Here are some of the approaches we may recommend:
- Exercise therapy: The cornerstone of long-term recovery. This usually includes gradual strengthening, mobility work and activity-specific drills.
- Manual therapy: Techniques such as joint mobilisation or soft tissue release. These can reduce muscle tension and provide temporary pain relief, especially when combined with exercise.
- Pain management strategies: Advice on pacing activity, using heat or over-the-counter medication (with GP guidance), and finding positions of comfort.
- Shockwave therapy: Occasionally used for stubborn soft tissue pain if there are secondary issues.
- Injections or surgery: Considered only if symptoms remain severe despite high-quality rehabilitation or if red flag signs are present. These are always discussed as part of shared decision-making with your medical team.
The majority of people recover without needing surgery. The key is building strength and confidence through movement, not relying on quick fixes.
Recovery times and long-term outlook
One of the most common questions we hear is: “How long will this take to get better?”
For many people, symptoms improve within a few weeks. Most recover fully within six to twelve weeks, especially with the right combination of movement, strengthening and lifestyle changes.
That said, every back is different. Factors like sleep, stress, fitness levels and confidence all influence recovery. Some people experience flare-ups along the way – these are usually temporary setbacks, not signs of lasting damage.
In the long term, people who complete a structured rehabilitation programme tend to do better than those who simply rest or rely on passive treatments. At Southampton Physio, we focus on giving you the tools to not just recover but to keep your back resilient in the years ahead.
Frequently asked questions
Is walking good for a herniated disc?
Yes. Gentle walking is often encouraged, as it keeps your joints moving and helps circulation. Start with short distances and increase gradually.
Can I still go to the gym with a slipped disc?
Usually yes, with the right guidance. Heavy lifting or sudden twisting may aggravate symptoms early on, but a physiotherapist can adapt your training.
Do slipped discs come back?
Recurrence is possible but not inevitable. Building strength, improving movement variety and managing load reduce the chances of future problems.
What exercises are safe with a slipped disc?
It depends on your stage of recovery. Early on, gentle mobility and core control are best. As symptoms settle, progressive strength training is key.
Is a slipped disc permanent?
No. Symptoms usually improve with time and treatment. Even when disc changes remain visible on scans, they often no longer cause pain.
Booking
Take the next step in your recovery
If back or leg pain is stopping you from working, exercising or sleeping well, you don’t have to put up with it. Most slipped discs recover without surgery – and the right support makes the process quicker, safer and more effective.
Our team at Southampton Physio will guide you through a personalised recovery plan: from easing pain to building strength and confidence in your back.
- Book your initial consultation today and take the first step towards moving freely again.