The difference between a lumbar disc prolapse and a herniation is the difference in the degree to which the nucleus pulposus has herniated out of the spinal canal. Lumbar disc prolapse usually refers to the nucleus pulposus has been removed to the outside of the spinal canal, lumbar disc herniation usually refers to the nucleus pulposus is still in the spinal canal, the symptoms of the condition will be different. 1. Different degrees: A prolapsed lumbar disc usually means that the central nucleus pulposus has completely entered the spinal canal, possibly squeezing the spinal cord nerve tissue. A herniated disc usually means that the nucleus pulposus has entered the spinal canal through part of the annulus fibrosus, and a small portion of the tissue usually remains in the intervertebral space. 2. Symptoms are different: the numbness and pain symptoms of a herniated lumbar disc generally last longer, and it is difficult to relieve the symptoms through rest. A herniated lumbar disc causes pain in the lumbar region, accompanied by radiating numbness and pain in the lower limbs. Most of the symptoms can be mild or severe, and are usually relieved after bed rest. It is recommended that the patient should consult a doctor in time, and after physical examination and imaging tests, the diagnosis should be clarified and the treatment should be in accordance with the doctor’s instructions.