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While the intervertebral disc is a common culprit in spine-related health
problems, its function is widely misunderstood.
The disc is a small cartilage pad that is situated between spinal
bones. The soft jellylike center is contained by layers of fibrous tissues.
Each disc serves as a connector, spacer, and shock absorber for the spine.
When healthy, discs allow normal turning and bending.
Since spinal discs have a very poor blood supply, they depend upon the
circulation of joint fluids to bring in nutrients and expel waste. If a
spinal joint loses its normal motion and this pumping action is impaired,
the health of the disc deteriorates. Like a wet sponge, a healthy disc is
flexible. A dry sponge is hard, stiff, and can crack easily. This is how
many disc problems begin.
Because of the way each disc is attached to the vertebra above and
below it, a disc cannot "slip" as commonly thought. However, trauma or
injury to the spine can cause discs to bulge, herniate, or worse, rupture.
This can be quite painful, putting pressure on the spinal cord and nerve
roots, interfering with their function.
The chiropractic approach to disc problems is to help restore better
motion and position to the spinal joint. Besides reducing disc bulging,
better spinal function helps reduce inflammation and begin the slow
process of healing the surrounding soft tissues.
Normal disc
Buldging disc
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