Knowra Intervertebral disc Intervertebral disc An intervertebral disc is a fibrocartilaginous structure between adjacent vertebral bodies. Its layered outer ring and hydrated center distribute loads while allowing limited spinal movement.
Annulus fibrosus : The tough, layered outer ring of an intervertebral disc, made chiefly of collagen fibers. Its concentric layers resist twisting and contain the pressurized nucleus.
Intervertebral disc biomechanics : The study of how intervertebral discs deform and transmit forces during spinal loading and motion. It describes how disc structure produces stiffness, flexibility, and load distribution.
Intervertebral disc herniation : Displacement of disc material beyond the disc space, often through a weakened or torn annulus fibrosus. Herniation is a structural failure that can irritate or compress adjacent nerve roots.
Facet joint : A synovial joint between the articular processes of adjacent vertebrae. Facet joints guide and restrict spinal motion, unlike the fibrocartilaginous disc between vertebral bodies.
Intervertebral disc regeneration : Research and treatment strategies aimed at restoring the structure or function of damaged intervertebral discs. The disc’s limited repair capacity motivates attempts to restore its matrix and cells.
Nucleus pulposus : The hydrated, gel-like central region of an intervertebral disc. This water-rich core distributes compressive loads across the disc.
Nucleus pulposus hydration : The water content of the nucleus pulposus, maintained partly by proteoglycans that attract water. Hydration lets the nucleus resist compression by generating internal pressure.
Degenerative disc disease : A clinical condition involving age-related or pathological changes in intervertebral discs associated with pain or dysfunction. Disc dehydration and structural changes can reduce height and alter spinal mechanics.
Sacroiliac joint : A joint connecting the sacrum to the ilium of the pelvis, transferring forces between spine and legs. It is a spinal-region joint, but it connects the spine to the pelvis rather than cushioning vertebral bodies.
Intervertebral disc cell therapy : Experimental treatments that introduce or stimulate cells to repair or regenerate intervertebral disc tissue. Researchers investigate whether cells can rebuild disc tissue without causing harmful growth or inflammation.
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