How to check if you have a slipped disc - (from HOME!)

Back pain is so common these days that many Malaysians brush it off.

But what if it’s more than just “biasa sakit belakang”? What if it’s a slipped disc?

At My Spine Network in Shah Alam, we often hear people say:

“Doktor, saya rasa belakang sakit sampai ke kaki. Tapi tak sure la ni slip disc ke tak.”

Good news — there are simple ways to check if you might have a slipped disc, even before going for an X-ray or MRI. Here's how.

First, What Is a Slipped Disc?

A “slipped disc” (also called a herniated disc) happens when one of the soft discs between your spine bones bulges or leaks out, pressing on nearby nerves.

This pressure can cause:

• Localised back pain

• Shooting pain down the leg (sciatica)

• Numbness or tingling

• Weakness in one leg or foot

Home Test: The Straight Leg Raise

How to Do It:

• Lie down flat on your back on a firm surface.

• Slowly lift one leg up, keeping your knee straight.

• Stop once you feel pain or discomfort.

What to Observe:

• Do you feel sharp pain shooting down your leg (especially below the knee)?

• Does it feel numb, tight, or tingly?

• Is one side more painful than the other?

If your pain worsens as you raise your leg, you may have nerve irritation—a common sign of a slipped disc.

Disclaimer:

This isn’t a confirmed diagnosis. Some people with mild slipped discs don’t feel pain during this test. Others may feel pain due to muscle tightness, not a disc issue.

If your pain is:

• Not improving

• Worsening with daily activities

• Or affecting your sleep and daily life...

👉 It’s time to get checked properly by a chiropractor or spine specialist.

Why Malaysians Ignore Slipped Discs (But Shouldn't)

Many of our patients in Shah Alam tell us they waited months before seeking help because:

• “Ingat sakit biasa je.”

• “Takut nanti doktor suruh operate.”

• “Tunggu urut hilang dulu.”

The truth is, the longer a nerve is compressed, the longer it takes to heal. Early care can often prevent the need for surgery.

📍 Need Help?

At My Spine Network, SACC Mall Shah Alam, we help patients every day with slipped disc issues—without surgery, injections or medication. With proper chiropractic care and spinal rehab, many find relief naturally.

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