Symptoms

• According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms of a herniated disk may include pain that begins in the buttocks and radiates down one leg and numbness or weakness in the lower back and one leg.
  
  

Leg Raising

• A doctor will perform a physical examination that includes a leg raising test where the patient lies flat and the doctor raises one leg to see if herniated disk symptoms occur. The doctor may also conduct the leg raising test with the other leg.
  
  

Neurological Exam

• A patient's reflexes, walking ability and muscle strength are evaluated in a neurological examination. An evaluation of sensations around the rectum may also be conducted.
  
  

Other Tests

• A magnetic resonance imaging scan may be performed to confirm the precise location of a herniated disk and any affected nerves. A computerized tomography scan may also be used to evaluate areas around the spinal column.
  
  

Treatment

• A herniated disk may be treated with over-the-counter pain killers such as acetaminophen, aspirin or ibuprofen. Cold or hot packs and a decrease in physical activity may also aid a patient's recovery from this condition.