Herniated Disc Explained

The back of the human body is held upright by an array of bones, which are separated by soft and spongy discs in between them. These bones are also called vertebrae, which these discs keep in place. These discs are primarily responsible to render the spine as flexible, and provide for the shock-absorbing functions. When the outer ring of such a disc, which is made up of fibres, is torn, it results into a bulge in the spine. These discs may begin to press the nerves of the central nervous system, most of which are located behind the spine. Such a disc is called herniated, or a slipped disc. This often arises from a previous situation where the discs might not be herniated, but might be under pressure. Most cases of disc-herniation involve the rupturing of the disc located in the lower part of the backbone. A herniated disc could be a consequence of an injury to the spine of the patient, or due to age-related factors. A herniated disc is a medical condition which must be immediately treated, and the patient can easily recover from it. Physical therapies are very effective, along with anti-inflammatory medicines and other measures like rest and losing weight.