Herniated Disc
• the disc contains a jelly-like centre called nucleus (collagen
bres, elastin bres, hydrated gel). nucleus is encased in exterior
called annulus brous (complex series of brous rings)
• disc herniation occurs when the nucleus pushes out through a
tear in the annulus brous
• can occur at any point of the spine, most often in lower back
• can result in pain, weakness in arm or leg
• can give no symptoms
• surgery is not normally needed to relieve symptoms
risk factors:
1. weight - extra weight causes stress on lower back
2. occupation - repetitive lifting, pulling, pushing, bending
sideways and twisting
3. genetics - inherit a predisposed to development
4. smoking - smoking lessens o2 to disk supply which can cause
breakdown
5. frequent driving - being seated combined with vibration from
engine can put pressure on spine
6. being sedentary - regular exercise can help prevent a herniated
• the disc contains a jelly-like centre called nucleus (collagen
bres, elastin bres, hydrated gel). nucleus is encased in exterior
called annulus brous (complex series of brous rings)
• disc herniation occurs when the nucleus pushes out through a
tear in the annulus brous
• can occur at any point of the spine, most often in lower back
• can result in pain, weakness in arm or leg
• can give no symptoms
• surgery is not normally needed to relieve symptoms
risk factors:
1. weight - extra weight causes stress on lower back
2. occupation - repetitive lifting, pulling, pushing, bending
sideways and twisting
3. genetics - inherit a predisposed to development
4. smoking - smoking lessens o2 to disk supply which can cause
breakdown
5. frequent driving - being seated combined with vibration from
engine can put pressure on spine
6. being sedentary - regular exercise can help prevent a herniated
