Causes of a herniated disk A slipped disk occurs when the soft internal section of an intervertebral disk protrudes through the outer layer. The human backbone, or spine, consists of 26 bones called vertebrae. Between each vertebra lie rubbery, cushion-like pads called “disks.” These disks help keep the vertebrae in place and act as shock absorbers. … Continue reading Causes, symptoms and treatment of herniated disc