What is intervertebral disc degeneration?
Intervertebral discs sit between each bone (vertebrae) in the spine. They act as shock absorbers as well as allowing normal movement between the bones in your lower back. Each disc has a strong outer ring of fibres (annulus fibrosis), and a soft jelly-like central portion (nucleus pulposus). The annulus is the toughest part of the disc, and connects each vertebral bone. The soft and juicy nucleus of the disc serves as the main shock absorber. In degenerative disc disease the discs or cushion pads between your vertebrae shrink, causing wearing of the disc, which may lead to herniation. You may also have osteoarthritic areas in your spine. This degeneration and osteoarthritis can cause back pain. Pain, numbness, tingling and weakness in the legs may result from pressure on the spinal nerves. An annular tear is where the annulus fibrosis is torn, often the first event in the process of disc prolapse. An annular tear can cause back pain with or without leg pain. A lumbar disc prolapse (or
