Spinal disc herniation

Spinal disc herniation

The spine consists of bones (vertebrae) that are found between small discs made of a fibrous outer shell (ring) that surrounds a nucleus pulposus, a gelatinous substance soft.
These intervertebral discs function as shock absorbers, as absorb shock and protect the spine and the nerves of the burden of daily activities or strenuous activities, such as lifting heavy objects.


When a herniated disc, the nucleus pulposus is pushed into the spinal canal through the fiber ring injuries. If pushing a spinal nerve, herniated disc causes pain, numbness or weakness of their arms and legs, depending on its location.



Disc herniation is most often seen at the lumbar (lower), while cervical herniated disk (neck) is 10% of cases. Disc herniation occurring at any age but is especially common in the lumbar level between 35 and 45 years, and the neck between 50 and 60 years.