A slipped disc, also called a herniated or prolapsed disc, is when the soft centre of a spinal disc pushes out and may press on a nearby nerve. It can happen in the lower back or the neck.
What you might notice
- Back or neck pain, sometimes sudden after lifting or twisting
- Pain, tingling or numbness that spreads into a leg or an arm
- Muscle weakness in the area the nerve supplies
- Some people have no symptoms at all
What happens over time
Many slipped discs improve over weeks to months as the body reabsorbs the bulge. Staying gently active, physiotherapy and pain medicines are the usual first steps. Surgery is considered when symptoms are severe or do not improve.
Acupuncture and herbal medicine
At The Tole, acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine are offered alongside medical care. They aim to ease pain and muscle tension around the spine and support recovery. Please bring your MRI or X-ray reports so we can take them into account.
We do not claim that these treatments repair a disc, and results vary from person to person.
Acupuncture and herbal treatment at The Tole
At The Tole, treatment combines neuro acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine. The Master’s team reviews your history and any medical reports, then recommends acupuncture, herbal preparations, or both. Herbs are prepared for the individual, using natural herbs and the family’s ancestral formulas.
You can walk in during opening hours without an appointment. If you live far away, email your medical reports and we will advise you on herbs and, where suitable, an intensive course of acupuncture. Herbs can be couriered to any country, usually in 3 to 5 working days. See herbs by post.
What to expect at your first visit
- Walk in or message us. No appointment is needed during opening hours. You can also send a WhatsApp message first.
- Tell us your story. The Master’s team asks about your symptoms and history, and looks at any reports you bring.
- Agree a plan. They recommend neuro acupuncture, herbal medicine, or both, and explain what to expect.
- Follow up. If you take herbs, we ask you to update us on your progress by email.
Why people choose The Tole
- A family practice, now in its fourth generation, in Kuala Lumpur since 1992
- Officially opened by the Health Minister on 31 January 1993
- Herbal formulas prepared for each patient, using natural herbs
- Walk-ins welcome, and herbs couriered to any country
Common questions
Can a slipped disc go back into place?
A disc does not slip like a bone, so it cannot be pushed back. Many bulges shrink with time and symptoms improve. Your doctor can explain what your scan shows.
Can acupuncture help a slipped disc?
Some people feel less pain and stiffness. Research is mixed, and we offer it as a complement to your medical care without promising an outcome.
Should I stop exercising?
Usually you should stay gently active rather than rest for long periods. Ask your doctor or physiotherapist which movements to avoid.
See a doctor first if
- Loss of control of your bladder or bowels, or numbness around the groin. Go to emergency care at once
- Growing weakness in a leg or an arm
- Severe pain that does not ease with medicine
- Pain after a fall or accident
Ready to talk to us?
Message us on WhatsApp, or walk in during opening hours. No appointment is needed.
Traditional Chinese medicine is offered as a complement to, not a replacement for, medical care. We do not promise a cure or a particular result, and responses vary from person to person. Please keep your doctor informed about any herbs or treatments you use.