What Is a Torn Spinal Disc?

Spinal discs serve as the cushion between the vertebrae in the back. The discs are made up of a gel-like interior surrounded by a cartilage-like shell referred to as the annulus fibrosus. A torn spinal disc occurs when the annulus fibrosus tears.

Types of Torn Spinal Disc Injuries

• Torn spinal disc injuries fall into three categories. Annular fiber tears that do not reach the outer part of the disc do not usually cause pain. Herniated discs occur when the tear allows the gel-like material of the center of the disc to escape. Bulging discs occur when a portion of the gel-like interior material bulges from a weak spot in the annular fiber.

Symptoms of a Torn Spinal Disc Injury

• Symptoms vary, depending on the location and type of injury. The annulus fibrosus have no pain-sensing nerves. Any pain will occur from the gel-like material of the interior coming in contact with spinal nerves.

Treatments for Torn Spinal Disc Injury

• Chiropractic treatment can be effective in providing pain relief. Other treatments include traction and pain medications.

Causes of Torn Spinal Disc Injury

• Tears to the spinal disc can occur for a number of reasons. Common causes include poor posture, improper lifting practices and sitting too long. People who are overweight are also prone to spinal disc injuries.

Slipped Discs

• Herniated discs are sometimes referred to as slipped discs. The bulging interior of the disc can press on a spinal nerve causing pain to the portion of the body associated with that nerve.