What is lumbar disc herniation?
Vertebrae are separated from each other by intervertebral discs which lie between the bony vertebral bodies of the spine, cushioning the vertebra and providing space for the nerves roots to exit the spinal canal. The disc and vertebral bodies are considered joints since there is motion. The discs are composed of cartilage that have an outer wall of tough fibrous tissue called the annulus fibrosus, and a softer, inner portion called the nucleus pulposus. The nucleus pulposus is a jelly-like substance that contains water which, like a water- filled balloon, gives cushioning to the disc. If a disc degenerates (a herniated disc), it flattens and puts pressure on the spinal cord. Because the space between the vertebrae also becomes less, the bones may put pressure on the nerves.
