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• Annular Tear Risk Factors

Annular Tear Risk Factors

Those with friends or loved ones who have experienced the pain associated with an annular tear often wonder what they can do to prevent themselves from becoming inflicted with this spinal condition. While not all annular tears are preventable, some risk factors are avoidable.

What are the Causes?

Below are the most common causes of annular tears:

• Age – As a person ages, their body goes through a great deal of change. Starting at about the age of 30, the intervertebral discs begin changing in response to years of continued wear. The annulus fibrosus (the hard exterior of a disc) can start to degenerate, or break down, and discs also begin to lose elasticity and water content. These changes can contribute toward the development of an annular tear.
• Strenuous activities – Participation in high-impact sports (i.e. football and rugby) can cause the annulus pulposus to become injured. Either acute or continued impact can lead to an annular tear. Strenuous occupations that require heavy lifting or constant bending can also lead to disc injury or annular tear.
• Weight – Since the majority of a person’s weight is supported by their back, intervertebral discs are responsible for providing a great deal of support. Carrying excess bodyweight forces the back to work extra hard and can sometimes cause the annular fibrosus to tear.

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Are Any Causes Avoidable?

Though avoiding some of the above factors can help to prevent an annular tear, risk factors (such as aging and profession) aren’t always avoidable. Patients who are already experiencing the symptoms associated with an annular tear should speak with their doctor to learn how to treat this condition.

Please note: Laser Spine Institute currently does not perform endoscopic procedures on the thoracic spine.