As people age, the nucleus pulposus may naturally dehydrate. Like a tire that loses air, its ability to absorb shock is lessened. The annulus fibrosus weakens and begins to tear. This may not cause pain in some people. In others, it may cause chronic pain, known as axial pain or disk space pain. Gradual dehydration of the nucleus pulposus is called degenerative disk disease. For more information and resources go to: http://www.spine-health.com/video/lumbar-herniated-disc-video
Herniated disks can be called by many names. A slipped disk, ruptured disk, or a bulging disk can all refer to the same medical condition.
Within the spine, a gel-like cushioned disk (nucleus pulposus) absorbs impact like a shock absorber, and separates vertebrae. When the annulus fibrosus tears due to an injury or the aging process, the nucleus pulposus can extrude through the tear. You might imagine a prolapsed disk as something like a doughnut with jelly. Applying pressure forces the nucleus pulposus to squeeze outside of the disk. This can put pressure on nerves and stimulate the symptoms of sciatica, or disk herniation.
Like a tree branching out, major spinal nerves extend out all along the spine to various organs, tissues and extremities. Herniated disks often press against these nerves. These ‘pinched nerves' cause radiating pain, numbness, tingling, and diminished strength and/or range of motion. Further, when the nerve comes in contact with the inner nuclear gel's inflammatory proteins, a person may experience significant pain. Nerve-related pain is also known as radicular pain. When the disk protrudes into surrounding vertebrae, it is called Schmorl's nodes.
Out of every 50 people, one will experience a herniated disk at some point. For between 10 and 25 percent, symptoms will last more than 6 weeks. Watch for:
home | patient info | spinal conditions | services | joint conditions | meet us | facilities | contact us | sitemap | disclaimer
Serving The Following Florida Cities:
Hallandale, Pembroke Pines FL • Davie FL • Miramar FL • Weston FL • Plantation FL • Ft. Lauderdate FL
Hollywood FL
Address: 3990 Sheridan Street, Suite 106-107 • Hollywood, FL 33021 • Phone: 954-986-0390
Spine and Joint Pain Treatment Website Designby PBHS 2010©