Copyright © 2004 Nucleus Medical Art, All rights reserved. www.nucleusinc.com.

Discs have both a firm outer ring made up of cartilage, called the annulus, and a more pliable gelatin center, called the nucleus. In a herniated disc, abnormal expansion of the nucleus pushes the annulus into the spinal cord, interfering with local nerves, and causing the resulting pain. This process can develop from a variety of circumstances, including bad posture, excess body weight, improper lifting techniques, a fall or accident, repeated strain of the back, or sudden pressure. In addition, discs are susceptible to general wear and tear, and become more vulnerable as their water content and associated flexibility decreases throughout the aging process.