Get Acquainted with Your Spinal Discs
Posted on Sep 5, 2017 2:30pm PDT
Your spine is comprised of much more than just bones, which are known as
vertebrae. It also has softer structures called intervertebral discs.
One disc separates each vertebra from the next one. The primary functions
of the spinal discs are to absorb shock and support proper movement of
the spine. When your discs are healthy, you probably won’t give
them a second thought. But when debilitating
herniated disc symptoms occur, you’ll probably be preoccupied by anticipation of your upcoming
appointment with a herniated disc surgeon in Miami.
A herniated disc occurs when the inner part of the disc leaks out. This
inner material is called the annulus pulposus, and the shell-like exterior
is the annulus fibrosus. Discs that are weakened by general wear and tear
over time are more susceptible to developing cracks in the annulus fibrosus.
A tear in the exterior can allow the inner material to push outward. Herniated
discs can compress the nerves of the spine, causing symptoms like numbness,
weakness, tingling, and pain that radiates along the limbs.
