Herniated Disks

Between each bony vertebral body in the spine is a disc that acts as a soft cushion. As we age, the disc becomes dehydrated, making it less supportive and more prone to injury. Even a healthy, well-hydrated disc can be injured. The disc is composed of the annulus, which is a tough tissue that makes up the outside of the disc. The nucleus pulposus is the jelly-like substance contained in the center of the disc. A herniated disc occurs when the nucleus breaks through the outer tissue.

A herniated disc is very common and may or may not cause pain. Stretching or tearing of the annulus may result in back or neck pain. The discs are immediately in front of the spinal cord and exiting nerves, so when the herniated disc or protrusion compresses the spinal cord or nerves, leg or arm pain and numbness or weakness may occur.

The most frequent symptom of a herniated disc in the lower back is pain radiating from this region into one or both of the legs. Similarly, in the cervical spine, pain radiates into the arms.