DISC_HERNIATION

The spinal column consists of bony elements referred to as the vertebra and the discs which reside between each vertebra. The disc can be compared to an inflated tire which acts as a cushion between each segment. During childhood the Disc is highly hydrated and performs its function very efficiently. As we grow older the disc looses water content and looses height and ability to resist the forces on the spine. If the disc is cut into sections, we can see the internal architecture of the disc. The inner section of the disc is referred to as the Nucleus Polposus, and is a gelatinous material. The Nucleus Polposus is surrounded by a tick tissue called the Annulus. As we continue aging, the annulus also looses its strength and may develop fissures which may allow the inner Nucleus Polposus of the disc to protrude through these fissures.

As the degenerated disc looses its strength, any mechanical insult may cause the Nucleus Polposus to herniate and place pressure on a nerve root that passes in the area. Not only the mechanical pressure produces symptoms, but research studies have clearly shown that chemicals released from the herniated disc produce inflammation and nerve dysfunction. It is for this reason that anti-inflammatory medications reduce the symptoms of a herniated disc. These medications do not change the mechanical pressure but counteract the chemicals released in the area.

The spine is composed of 33 vertebrae, uniquely aligned to support the body and provide a passageway for the spinal cord and nerves. At the top of the spine are seven cervical (neck) vertebrae, followed by 12 thoracic (chest) vertebrae from which the 12 pairs of ribs originate. Next are 5 lumbar (low back) vertebrae, followed by the 5 fused sacral bones (the back of the pelvis) and 4 fused bones of the coccyx (tailbone).

What is lumbar disc herniation?

Lumbar disc herniation (herniated disc) Vertebrae are separated from each other by intervertebral discs which lie between the bony vertebral bodies of the spine, cushioning the vertebra and providing space for the nerves roots to exit the spinal canal. The disc and vertebral bodies are considered joints since there is motion.

Lumbar disc herniation (herniated disc) The discs are composed of cartilage that have an outer wall of tough fibrous tissue called the annulus fibrosus, and a softer, inner portion called the nucleus pulposus. The nucleus pulposus is a jelly-like substance that contains water which, like a water- filled balloon, gives cushioning to the disc. If a disc degenerates (a herniated disc), it flattens and puts pressure on the spinal cord. Because the space between the vertebrae also becomes less, the bones may put pressure on the nerves.

What causes a lumbar disc herniation?

Lumbar disc herniation (herniated disc) The natural curvature of the spine provides the skeleton with strength and stability. The curves act like a spring in a coil and distribute the mechanical stress as the body moves. Unfortunately, because the lumbar spine carries the bulk of the body's weight, it is more prone to injury. As discs age, they lose their water content and begin to degenerate. The annulus fibrosus (outer ring), may also be damaged through general wear and tear or by injury in which the nucleus, under extreme pressure, bulges out through the annulus fibrosus ring.

Can lumbar disc herniation be prevented?

Most lumbar disc herniations occur in 30 to 50 year-old people – when we are physically active and busy, sometimes too busy to take care of ourselves. Confining our physical activity to what our bodies are prepared for is a key to preventing injuries. The answer to this dilemma is to prepare our bodies for what we want to do. Consistent and rational exercise, maintaining good body weight, good posture (especially holding the abdomen in) and good nutrition all support good back health. Accident prevention involves assessing risks – is your body prepared for the activity you are about to do?