Your spine is made up of interlocking stacks of bone called vertebrae. Between each pair of vertebrae is a disc which cushions the bones so they will not grind together. Like any cushion, the disc has a soft interior and a firm covering. The soft interior is a jell-like pad called the nucleus.

What does a disc do?

Each disc absorbs shock as you move by compressing and deforming, much like the shock absorbers on a car. Discs allow your vertebrae to rock back and forth, giving you the flexibility to bend and move.

What are other kinds of disc problems?

As a consequence of aging, the water content in the disc progressively diminishes. As the disc dries out, it loses its ability to absorb shocks. This causes the shocks to be transmitted to ligaments and surrounding tissues which then may also be injured. Dehydrated discs do not generally become herniated.

What is a herniated disc?

During heavy lifting, bending or twisting, the tough outer ring of the disc is subject to great stress as it fights to hold the soft jelly-like pad within it. If the stress is greater than the strength of the outer ring a tear results. A disc bulge results when a small tear allows the nucleus to bulge into the outer ring. Larger tears allow the jell-like pad to escape, resulting in a condition called a herniated disc or protruded disc. A herniated disc is also known as a "slipped" disc. Both a disc bulge and herniated disc may cause significant pain. If sensitive nerves near the disc are compressed or inflamed, pain may also be felt in the buttocks, hip or leg.

Diagnostic Services:

Your doctor may order one or more special tests to help confirm your diagnosis, rule out other problems and pinpoint the source of your spine pain.

X-rays show the general condition of your vertebrae (bones) and are very helpful in determining the cause of pain. Although x-rays cannot reveal a ruptured disc, for instance, they may reveal a narrowed disc space which can be an indication of trouble in that area of the spine.

MRIs (magnetic resonance imaging) and CTs (computerized tomography) produce detailed computer images of soft tissue and bones. MRIs are especially beneficial for the study of soft tissue abnormalities such as disc degeneration, protrusion or rupture. CT scans can also show a ruptured disc, tumor, etc. They are particularly good for diagnosing spinal stenosis.

EMGs (electromyography) measure the electrical activity of muscle contractions. They detect nerve of muscle irritation and damage.

What can a back specialist do for you?

The specialist will determine the cause of your pain based upon physical examination and diagnostic studies. Your doctor may prescribe medications, recommend physical therapy, recommend an injection or perhaps surgery.

What else can be done?

Physical therapy has a role in decreasing pain and preventing a recurrence. A detailed physical therapy program will be developed to treat your problem if your doctor determines it is indicated. This may include the use of deep heat, aquatic therapy, and exercise equipment as part of your rehabilitation.

Extension exercises are used to decrease pain by reducing pressure on the disc and improving posture.

Is surgery helpful?