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Types of Torn Discs

A spinal disc is made of two layers: the tough outer layer known as the annulus fibrosus and the soft, jelly-like interior core called the nucleus pulposus. In a healthy spinal disc, the outer layer protects and contains the soft inner layer. In a torn disc, the outer layer has split or ripped, allowing the inner layer to leak out. Although the condition itself is the same regardless of location, the symptoms caused by it depend on where in the spine it occurs, and for this reason types of torn discs may be categorized according to their position in the spine.

Torn discs can be found in the:

• Cervical Spine – This part of the spine includes vertebrae C1-C7 and is more frequently referred to as the neck. Symptoms of a torn disc in this area would manifest in the neck, upper back, shoulders, arms, and hands.
• Thoracic Spine – The thoracic section of the spine includes vertebrae T1-T12. These vertebrae are the base for the ribs and have more support than other sections of the spine, making a torn disc in this area less likely. Symptoms of a thoracic torn disc would present themselves in the mid-back, chest, ribs, and arms.
• Lumbar Spine – The lumbar region of the spine includes the L1-L5 (and in some people, L6) vertebrae. About 90 percent of torn discs occur in this area of the spine because it bears the most weight, and it doesn’t have the support of the rib cage as the thoracic area does. Symptoms of a lumbar torn disc would appear in the lower back, buttocks, legs, and feet.

Symptoms of the Types of Torn Discs

Although the area in which symptoms are experienced can vary, the types of symptoms experienced are usually similar and include:

• Pain (which may be a sharp or burning pain that travels to other areas of the body)
• Tingling
• Numbness
• Weakness
• Loss of movement
• Muscle spasms or muscle cramping

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For more information on the different types of torn discs, to learn about the endoscopic procedures performed at Laser Spine Institute to treat this condition, or to request a complimentary review of your CT scan or MRI, contact us today.

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