A herniated disc is a spine condition that occurs when the gel-like center of a disc ruptures through a weak area in the tough outer wall, similar to the filling being squeezed out of a jelly doughnut. Low back or leg pain may result when the disc material touches or compresses a nearby spinal nerve. Conservative nonsurgical treatment is the first step to recovery. With a team approach to treatment, 80% of people improve in about 6 weeks and return to normal activity. Surgery may be recommended if you have signs of nerve damage, such as weakness or loss of feeling in your legs.