Annular tears occur when the annulus fibrosus – the multi-layered outer wall of an intervertebral disc – develops a fissure that may or may not be large enough to release inner disc fluid into the spinal canal. If this central disc colloid – nucleus pulposus – does extrude, it may compress nearby spinal nerves and cause symptoms of pain, tingling, numbness, and weakness. The symptoms may stay localized, but it is more likely that they will travel throughout the extremities that are innervated by the compressed nerve.
At Laser Spine Institute, we believe that the first step towards meaningful pain relief is educating our patients about their spine conditions. That’s why we have compiled a list of articles that provide in-depth explanations about the causes, symptoms, and treatments of annular tears and disc herniation. You can also learn more about our state-of-the-art, minimally invasive procedures that have offered tens of thousands of patients a welcomed alternative to the risks of open spine surgery.
Please feel free to browse all of our informational articles about annular tears, including:
- Obtaining an Annular Tear Prognosis
- Annular Tear Healing Time
- The Process of Disc Resorption
- Areas of the Body Affected by an Annulus Fibrosus Tear
- How to Minimize Your Chance of Developing an Annular Fissure
- How to Treat an Annular Tear in an Intervertebral Disc
- How to Treat Symptoms Associated with Annular Tears
- Symptoms Associated With an Annular Tear in the Lumbar Spine
- Diagnosing an Intervertebral Disc Tear
If you are suffering from an annular tear and would like more information about the condition and your options for minimally invasive treatments, contact Laser Spine Institute today. We would even be happy to provide you with a complimentary review of your MRI or CT scan.
