1-

• Contact Laser Spine Institute
• Request MRI Review
• Medical Spine Seminar

You are here

• Home
• »
• Spine Conditions

What Causes a Disc Protrusion?

A disc protrusion can be a painful condition under certain circumstances, but what causes a disc protrusion? There are many causes, yet the main factor is age.

As we mature, the discs of cartilage between vertebrae begin to break down. Degenerative disc disease is a term often associated with this breakdown. Each disc is composed of a fibrous outer layer, a jelly-like inner material, and is saturated with water. These hydrated discs act as the spine’s shock absorbers and remain flexible, until normal wear-and-tear sets in and the moisture in the disc begins to dry out. The dehydration causes the disc to lose its supporting strength and the vertebrae above and below squeeze the disc. As a result, the inner disc material expands outward against the weak wall, creating a bulge. A disc protrusion is typically found in middle-aged people, but can develop in individuals as young as 20. Disc protrusions generally occur in the lumbar (lower back) region, but they can develop in the neck (cervical region) or mid-back (thoracic region). The disc bulge may press upon the spinal cord or nerve root, causing pain. Many instances of protruding discs, however, never result in symptoms.

Other Causes

• Lifestyle habits – Smoking cigarettes excretes toxins into the body, which have been linked to disc degeneration. Other issues such as obesity, an unhealthy diet, and lack of exercise further contribute to the weakening of the intervertebral discs.
• Trauma – Falling from a high altitude and landing on your feet or buttocks can create enough of a jolt to cause a disc protrusion. Picking up heavy items while bent at the waist (instead of lifting with your legs) – or getting involved in a car accident – are other examples of back and neck trauma that can damage the intervertebral discs.
• Genes – A few genes carry mutations that predispose some people to degenerative disc disease, thereby placing them at a higher risk for the condition.

If You Are in Pain

Sometimes conservative treatments such as medication, chiropractic sessions, and physical therapy aren’t enough to help the pain that can arise from a disc protrusion. If this sounds familiar, perhaps it’s time to learn more about the advanced endoscopic techniques offered at Laser Spine Institute. Our highly trained orthopedic specialists have developed several minimally invasive procedures that have helped tens of thousands of people rediscover their lives without back and neck pain. Contact us for a complimentary review of your MRI or CT scan.

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