We all know spinal discs are important- but to understand why, the real question is;
what are they made of? Your spinal discs are little cushions that sit between the
bones or vertebrae in your spine. Each one of your discs is made up of a tough, fibrous outer layer (annulus fibrosis) and a jelly-like inside layer (the nucleus pulposus). The tough outer layer contains and protects the softer inside layer. These small discs have a big job. They enable your spine to move in all directions.
Why it Matters: The nucleus pulposus (inner layer of the disc) is mostly made up of water. The high water content helps your discs stay supple and moveable. It acts like a small swivel to allow your body to tilt and rotate. As you get older, your discs tend to lose their high water content and can become degenerative. Degenerative discs don't move as well, are more prone to cause pain, and even contribute to compression on your spinal nerves. · Your spinal column has 24 moveable bones with spinal discs between each pair. · Spinal discs are designed to help your move in all directions. · Movement of your spine can help keep your spinal discs healthy. Movement is one of the best ways to keep your spinal discs healthy. Since your spinal discs don't have a very good blood supply, movement is how they bring in nutrients. Moving your spine helps your spinal discs get in nutrients to stay healthy and push out waste contributing to pain and inflammation. If your neck or back hurts, give us a call- we'll help you get your life back from pain. Types of Spinal Disc Problems If you've had a spinal disc problem, you know how painful it can be. Every movement seems to hurt, and it can feel like you'll never be back to your old self. But, with the proper care and a little time, you can get your life back. Pain is a signal to "Pay Attention Inside Now." If you notice neck or back pain, it's a warning sign from your body. It's your body's way of letting you know you’ve pushed past its limits. Why it Matters: The most common type of spinal disc problem is called a bulge or herniation. A disc bulge or herniation is when your spinal disc's inner portion is trying to (or has) pushed through the tough outer layer. When the inside pushes or bulges, it can cause pain in two different ways. If the disc bulges far enough to press on a spinal nerve, you may notice pain that travels down your arms or legs. If the inside of your disc pushes through the outer layer, it could also cause severe inflammation resulting in pain.