Back pain affects most adults at some point — but terms like herniated disc, sciatica, and pinched nerve often create more fear than clarity.

In this episode, we simplify the language around lumbar disc problems and walk through what’s actually happening inside the spine when a disc bulges, herniates, extrudes, or becomes sequestered.

You’ll learn:

1. Why pain sometimes shifts from the back into the leg
2. The difference between radiculopathy and sciatica
3. Why most disc herniations heal on their own
4. When symptoms signal it’s time for further evaluation
5. How doctors use your history, physical exam, and imaging together
6. What conservative care looks like before surgery is ever considered

We also discuss the spectrum of symptoms — from sudden “I threw my back out” episodes to persistent leg pain — and explain when minimally invasive options may be appropriate.

If you’ve ever experienced back pain and thought, “That sounds like me,” this episode will help you understand what may be happening — and what to do next.