ADVERTISING: Advertorial — Demystifying herniated discs
In-between each vertebra of the spine there is an intervertebral disc. These discs act like shock absorbers to provide cushion and flexibility to the spine. The discs consist of a tough outer layer called the annulus fibrosus and a gel-like inner core known as the nucleus pulposus. The nucleus pulposus is rich in water and functions as a hydraulic cushion, distributing mechanical forces evenly in all directions when the spine is compressed. This shock-absorbing capability is crucial for protecting the spine during activities when the body is in motion.
A herniated disc, also known as a slipped or bulging disc, occurs when the soft, jelly-like center of the disc pushes through a tear in the tough outer layer. This protrusion can compress nearby spinal nerves or the spinal cord, leading to pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the area served by the affected nerve.
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