Intervertebral Discs

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Intervertebral discs are tissues located between each vertebra allowing for bending, twisting and shock–absorption. They are attached to the vertebrae above and below by strong ligaments. When a disc herniates, the gel-like center squeezes out through the wall of the disc, putting pressure against a nerve. Pain in the back and leg from pressure on the nerve can be relieved by various treatments in our office, but generally the damage done to the disc will be permanent and may have serious consequences if care is not taken to maintain the structural integrity of the area.

Certain factors can make you more prone to a disc herniation. Aging causes a decrease in blood supply to your interverterbral discs as early as age 20. In addition, dehydration also occurs with aging, leading to a flatter, drier disc which is more susceptible to herniation. Regular exercise and spinal maintenance can helps to prevent injury through self–lubrication and increased blood flow.