Patients often ask me how their disc ruptured. In most cases, this event does not occur with a bang, but rather a ‘whisper’.”

A ruptured disc is one that has ‘herniated’ meaning the disc contents have protruded through an opening in the wall of the disc. A Herniated Disc is categorized as a Non-Contained Disc.

Throughout the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine discs sit anchored in between vertebrae. Vertebral endplates made from cartilage along with a system of ligaments hold each disc in proper position. Therefore, discs cannot ‘slip’ out of place.

These small cushions slightly bend and twist while absorbing stress from body movement. Some types of body movement create more disc pressure such as jumping or lifting a heavy object. The way a disc absorbs stress and pressure is similar to a tube of toothpaste. Squeezing the tube places the contents under pressure. If the tube encasing the paste has a weak spot or a hole, the paste leaks out through the opening.

Certain herniations can be very painful while others cause no symptoms. Often when a disc herniates the nucleus spreads into the spinal canal compressing sensitive nerve roots. In addition, the nucleus releases a chemical agent that temporarily irritates surrounding nerve structures causing inflammation and pain.

Why do discs herniate?

A number of factors contribute to the deterioration of discs. The dynamics of normal wear and tear, injury, and aging all can affect the structural integrity of discs. Fortunately, the majority of herniated or ruptured discs do not require surgical intervention. In many cases, over time the invading nucleus pulls back toward the disc eliminating associated pain.

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