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Intervertebral Disc

An intervertebral disc is a layer of cartilaginous material that functions as a cushion between each vertebra. These discs enable the spinal column to extend and flex.

There are two parts that make up an intervertebral disc: the nucleus pulposus, or inner layer, and the annulus fibrosis, or outer layer. The nucleus pulposus is a fluid, gel-like pouch that acts as a shock absorber. The annulus fibrosis surrounds the nucleus pulposus, and is made of a strong fibrocartilage that gives the disc structure and enables even weight distribution of neighboring vertebrae.

The intervertebral disc is vulnerable to a number of problems because it endures a significant amount of wear and tear. Discs can become damaged as a result of an injury or trauma to the spine. Actions like heavy lifting, repetitive use of poor body mechanics, or sudden twisting movements can increase your chances of incurring intervertebral disc damage like a bulging disc or herniated disc.

A bulging disc occurs when the disc weakens or degenerates and protrudes into the spinal canal. A herniated disc occurs the outer annulus fibrosis ruptures and inner nucleus pulposus material leaks out.

Another cause of disc damage is aging, which leads to conditions like arthritis of the spine, degenerative disc disease, and bone spurs. As we age, disc material begins to dehydrate and lose elasticity, causing discs to flatten out, bulge, and fail to support for bony vertebrae. This is one cause of bone spurs in the spinal column.

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All of these conditions can cause a restricted range of motion in the spine and can cause a host of symptoms, including back stiffness and pain, as well as pain, weakness, and numbness in the extremities. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you may have intervertebral disc damage. Your doctor can perform a physical examination or order tests such as an X-ray, CT scan, or MRI to confirm the diagnosis. After that, he or she can prescribe a treatment plan, which will likely begin conservatively with exercise, bed rest, over-the-counter medicine, and physical therapy.

Those who continue to experience extreme back or neck pain after trying conservative treatments may consider a minimally invasive, endoscopic procedure at Laser Spine Institute (LSI). If you’d like more information on this type of procedure, and if you would like to receive a free MRI or CT scan review, contact LSI today.

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