Slipped disc

What is a slipped disc?

The vertebral column consists of vertebrae and intervertebral discs that are held together by ligaments, muscles and tendons. An intervertebral disc may protrude for unknown reasons. We call this a 'slipped disc' or 'herniated disc'. The problem will usually be in the lower back. It can put pressure on a nerve, and stimulate or irritate it. Another term for a slipped disc is lumbosacral radiculus syndrome (LRS).

What are the complaints associated with a slipped disc?

A slipped disc can cause pain that extends to the lower leg and sometimes to the foot. There is usually pain in the lower back. The pain in the leg is sharp. Certain positions or movements, but also coughing, sneezing or straining, can cause or intensify pain. There is sometimes a loss of strength in the leg or a feeling that the leg is sleeping. ⁵⁰⁰

People with intellectual disabilities sometimes find it impossible to communicate this pain and loss of strength. The people around them may then notice only a change in behaviour.

How common is a slipped disc in the general population?

The annual incidence of radiating pain in the lower back in Dutch general practice is 12 per 1000. Incidence increases with age and is highest in the group aged 75 to 84 years. The condition is seen slightly more often in women than in men. The one-year prevalence is 36 per 1000 and the age-dependent trend is the same as for incidence. The incidence of genuine slipped discs is highest between the ages of 30 and 64.  ⁵⁰⁰

Applying strict criteria for lumbosacral radiculus syndrome to the results of a Finnish population survey resulted in a 5% lifetime prevalence for men and 4% for women.  ¹⁷⁵

How common is a slipped disc in people with intellectual disabilities?

No literature has been found about slipped discs in people with intellectual disabilities. There is no reason to assume that slipped discs are less common in this group. Because sitting for long periods and inadequate levels of healthy physical exercise are a risk factor, it is reasonable to assume that slipped discs are actually more common in these people.

A slipped disc can easily be overlooked in people with intellectual disabilities.

4.50% General population Not known for people with intellectual disabilities