Clinical examination will give a fair idea of what the problem could be, and to confirm the diagnosis you may asked to get an X-ray or MRI of the involved region. MRI can delineate exactly at what level disc is herniated and how much it compresses the nerve root involved. However, a study revealed that more than 50% of people with disc herniation don’t have any symptoms. Hence, we don’t recommend getting an MRI done unless you have specific symptoms and signs.