Disc herniation

Disc herniation is displacement of intervertebral disc material beyond the disc’s normal boundary. It can irritate or compress nearby nerves, causing pain, numbness, weakness, or other neurological symptoms.

Intervertebral disc: A fibrocartilaginous structure between adjacent vertebrae that cushions loads and permits spinal movement. Herniation occurs when material from this spinal structure extends beyond its normal boundary.
Magnetic resonance imaging: An imaging method that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of internal tissues. MRI can show disc displacement and its relationship to spinal nerves.
Disc bulge: A broad extension of disc tissue beyond the edges of the vertebral endplates, without focal herniation. A bulge is a different imaging description and does not necessarily cause symptoms.
Lumbar disc herniation: Herniation of an intervertebral disc in the lower back. Lumbar herniations are common and can produce pain or neurological symptoms in the leg.
Annulus fibrosus: The tough, layered outer ring of an intervertebral disc, surrounding its softer center. A herniation can pass through weakened or disrupted layers of this ring.
Computed tomography: An imaging technique that combines X-ray measurements to create cross-sectional images of the body. CT can help assess spinal anatomy when MRI is unsuitable or unavailable.
Spinal stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal or nerve passageways that can compress neural structures. Stenosis can cause similar nerve symptoms, though the narrowing may have other causes.
Cervical disc herniation: Herniation of an intervertebral disc in the neck. Cervical herniations may affect nerve roots supplying the arm or, less commonly, the spinal cord.
Nucleus pulposus: The hydrated, gel-like central region of an intervertebral disc. This central material may protrude through the annulus in a herniation.
Physical therapy: Assessment and treatment that uses movement, exercise, and other physical methods to improve function. Exercise-based rehabilitation is commonly used to manage symptoms and restore activity.

Linked from 4 pages