Slipped disc. Spinal model demonstrating a slipped intervertebral disc. The slipped disc is the small bulge (red, centre), near the base of the spine. One of the discs of cartilage (brown) between the spinal bones (vertebrae) has ruptured, leading to the internal jelly-like material oozing out. This often puts pressure on nearby nerves (yellow). These discs of cartilage are found in the backbone, forming the cushions between each of the vertebrae forming the vertebral column. Surgery may be needed, though most slipped discs heal with rest. The pelvis (bottom) is also shown.