Lumbar disc herniation

The spinal disc is a soft cushion that sits between each vertebra of the spine. 

In a young individual, the disc is soft and elastic, but like so many other structures in the body, the disc gradually looses its elasticity and is more vulnerable to injury. 

In fact, even in individuals as young as 30, MRIs show evidence of disc deterioration in about 30% of people.

Many patients with back pain, leg pain, or weakness of the lower extremity muscles are diagnosed with a herniated disc. 

When a disc herniation occurs, the cushion that sits between the spinal vertebra is pushed outside its normal position. 

A hrniated disc would not be a problem if it weren't for the spinal nerves that are very close to the edge of these spinal discs.

The bony spine is designed so that vertebrae "stacke" together can provide a movable support structure while also protecting the spinal cord ( nervous tissue that extends down the spinal column from the brain) from injury. 

Each vertebra has a spinous process, which is a bony prominence behind the spinal cord that shields the cord s nerve tissue. 

The vertebrae also have a strong bony "body" in front of the spinal cord to provide a platform suitable for weight-bearing.

The discs are pads that serve as "cushions" between the vertebral bodies that serve to minimize the impact of movement on the spinal column. 

Each disc is designed like a jelly donut with a central softer component ( nucleus pulposus). 

Ligaments are strong fibrous soft tissues that firmly attach bones to bones. 

Ligaments attach each of the vertebrae and surround each of the discs.

When ligaments are injured as the disc degenerates, localized pain in the area affected can result.