Herniated Disc
There are many spinal conditions that sound alike, but have very different meanings. Understanding these terms can help you get to the root of your pain.
Intervertebral discs sit between the bones of the spine. They are made of two parts, a fibrous tough ring called the annulus fibrous, and a soft center, called the nucleus pulposus. As you age, the discs become less fluid filled and lose height. This is a degenerative disc. It can be determined by a radiograph, or x-ray, by seeing the loss of space between the vertebrae.
Disc bulges and herniated discs are seen on an MRI and sometimes a CT scan. A herniated disc is when a piece of the inner soft nucleus pulposus breaks off and moves past the annulus into the spinal canal where the spinal cord and nerves are. If it touches a nerve, it may cause radiculopathy. A bulging disc is a degenerative disc that is not herniated. Other injuries that can occur to a disc include annular tears. A layer of fibers of the annulus may be injured or torn. This may cause inflammation and pain.
Check out our Symptoms page for more information to further your understanding. Or call our office at (216) 844-6170.