How to identify Primary Symptoms of Spinal Disc Problem

We have number of times discussed Spinal disc problem on this platform. But how is that we at lay men's level, can catch symptoms of a Spinal problem. Its symptoms are pain, numbness, tingling pain starting from the back and going through the back leg and reaching the foot. Best diagnosis is done through MRI. Pain initially may be so severe that it may make even walking a difficult exercise for a short time. Initially a bit of rest is fine but beyond that one must start walking as that aids healing in a big way.