You might think of your "spine" as one solid and flexible piece, but it's actually made up of tiny moving parts that need to work together to ensure proper mobility. Sometimes, however, this harmony has some discordant elements, in particular the intervertebral discs, the cushion-like pads between the vertebrae. When they become damaged and interfere with nerve roots branching off from the spinal cord, they can play the wrong note, perhaps even painfully.
Also known as a herniated disc or ruptured disc, it is a relatively common condition that can occur anywhere in the spine, but most likely affects the lower back or neck.
Intervertebral discs are cushion-like cushions located between the vertebrae. Image source: 123RF.com.
You may not feel herniated discs much — in fact, some people don't even feel it and don't notice it until they get imaging tests for another reason, such as a back injury — but for some, this slippage puts pressure on the surrounding nerves. It can be perceived as a violin in an otherwise harmonious concert.
"Usually the problem isn't the hernia itself, or that's not what drives someone to see a doctor," says Neil Anand, MD , professor of orthopedic surgery and director of the department of spinal trauma at the Cedars-Sinai Spine Center in Los Angeles.
The problem mainly occurs when a part of the disc presses on the nerves. "This is where pain and loss of mobility occur, and these are both important issues that need to be addressed," says Dr. Anand. Your doctor may recommend physical therapy, medication and/or surgery.
What are herniated discs?
As mentioned above, intervertebral discs separate each individual vertebra and absorb shock. Without them, the bones of the spine would rub against each other and we would not be able to absorb the impact of trauma and body weight.
In addition to protecting, these pillows also give flexibility to the spine, making movements such as twisting and bending possible.
Like yin and yang, discs are both soft and hard. They have a strong outer layer called the fibrous ring and a soft, gelatinous center called the nucleus pulposus . The fibers on the outer surface of each disc help them attach to the vertebrae and stay in place.
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