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Intervertebral discs: functions and role in the spine 🧬

intervertebral disc

Back pain? 

 

Don't worry, you're not alone! 

 

Many people suffer from cervical or lumbar back pain at some point in their lives. 

 

In this article, we'll delve into the world of intervertebral discs, understanding their functions and their role in the functioning of the spine. 

What are intervertebral discs? 

Intervertebral discs are cushions located between each vertebra in the spinal column. 

 

They are made up of a gelatinous core called the nucleus pulposus and a fibrous envelope called the annulus fibrosus. 

 

The pulpy core is composed of water and proteoglycans, while the fibrous ring is made up of collagen and elastic fibers. 

 

Intervertebral discs act as shock absorbers, absorbing the shocks and pressures experienced by the spine during movement and daily activities. 

 

They also allow the spine to bend and twist in different directions. 

 

Intervertebral discs are essential for spinal mobility and flexibility, as well as for protecting the spinal cord. 

 

However, because of their position between the vertebrae, they are subject to wear and tear, and can cause back pain or mobility problems if damaged or displaced. 

What are intervertebral discs made of?

Intervertebral discs are made up of two main parts: the nucleus pulposus and the annulus fibrosus.

 

👉 The nucleus pulposus is the center of the intervertebral disc and is composed of a gel of water and proteoglycans. It is responsible for the disc's resilience and shock absorption.

 

👉 The annulus fibrosus surrounds the nucleus pulposus and is made up of collagen and elastic fibers. It is responsible for the pressure resistance and stability of the intervertebral disc.

 

Together, the pulpy core and fibrous ring create a structure that acts like a cushion between each vertebra in the spine. 

 

This structure is essential for the mobility and flexibility of the spinal column, as well as for the protection of the spinal cord. 

 

What is the function of intervertebral discs?

The main function of the intervertebral discs is to act as cushions between each vertebra in the spinal column. 

 

They act as shock absorbers to absorb the shocks and pressures experienced by the spine during movement and daily activities. 

 

Intervertebral discs also allow the spine to bend and twist in different directions, offering great flexibility of movement. 🧘

 

In addition to their mechanical function, intervertebral discs play an important role in spinal health. 

 

They help maintain the proper distance between each vertebra, which helps preserve the space needed for nerves to exit the spine. 

 

Intervertebral discs are also involved in the circulation of nutrients and oxygen to the spine, due to their ability to absorb and release water. 

 

intervertebral disc

 

How to care for your intervertebral discs?

Taking care of your intervertebral discs is essential to prevent injury and back pain. 😌

 

Here are some tips for maintaining a healthy spine:

 

👉 Adopt a good posture Poor posture can put excessive pressure on the intervertebral discs. It's therefore important to adopt good posture during all activities, whether sitting, standing or lifting.

 

👉 Exercise regularly: Exercise can help strengthen back muscles and improve spinal flexibility. Exercises such as swimming, yoga and walking are particularly beneficial.

 

👉 Avoid sitting or standing for too long: Remaining in the same position for long periods can cause excessive pressure on the intervertebral discs. It's then important to take regular breaks to move around and change position.

 

👉 Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight can cause additional pressure on intervertebral discs. Maintaining a healthy weight can help prevent back injury and pain.

 

👉 Avoid smoking: Smoking can reduce the blood supply to intervertebral discs, which can make them more vulnerable to injury and back pain.

 

By following these simple tips, you can maintain a healthy spine and prevent intervertebral disc problems. 

 

If you experience persistent back pain, consult our professionals at Chiro Ste-Rose to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment. 🧑‍⚕️

 

Intervertebral discs can be the source of which problem?

Intervertebral discs can be the source of several health problems, including :

 

👉 Herniated discs Disc herniation: When the nucleus pulposus of the intervertebral disc protrudes from the annulus fibrosus, it can cause intense pain and pressure on nearby nerves. This is commonly known as a herniated disc.

 

👉 Disc degeneration: Over time, intervertebral discs can degrade and lose their elasticity, which can cause back pain and stiffness.

 

👉 Spinal stenosis: When intervertebral discs degenerate, they can reduce the space available for nerves in the spine. This can cause back pain, muscle weakness and mobility problems.

 

👉 Vertebral fractures: intervertebral discs can compress and crack under excessive pressure, causing vertebral fractures.

 

👉 Mobility problems: If the intervertebral discs are damaged or displaced, this can cause back pain and loss of mobility.

 

Taking care of your intervertebral discs and preventing injury are key to avoiding these health problems. 

intervertebral disc

 

How to treat a crushed disc?

Treatment of a crushed disc depends on the severity of the injury and associated symptoms. 🤕

 

Here are some common treatment options:

 

👉 Rest and activity modification: people with a crushed disc should avoid activities that aggravate symptoms and get enough rest to allow the body to heal.

 

👉 Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help strengthen back muscles and improve spinal flexibility, which can relieve pain and improve function.

 

👉 Analgesics and anti-inflammatories: Medications such as analgesics and anti-inflammatories can help relieve the pain and inflammation associated with a crushed disc.

 

👉 Epidural injection: An epidural steroid injection can help reduce the inflammation and pain associated with a crushed disc.

 

👉 Surgery: In severe cases where symptoms are not relieved by other treatments, surgery may be required to remove part or all of the damaged intervertebral disc.

 

It is important to consult a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate treatment for a crushed disc. 🧑‍⚕️

 

Early treatment can help prevent more serious complications and improve long-term results. 

 

Chez Chiro Ste-Rose...

As healthcare professionals at Chiro Ste-RoseWe strongly encourage anyone suffering from back pain or mobility problems to make an appointment with us. 🧑‍⚕️

 

Thanks to our professionals, we are able to diagnose and treat a variety of back problems using chiropractic techniques and complementary therapies. 

 

Our goal is to relieve pain, improve function and prevent future injury. ✨

 

We work closely with our patients to create a personalized treatment plan that meets their unique needs. 

 

Don't let back pain slow you down. 

 

Make an appointment with Chiro Ste-Rose today and regain a healthy spine 😀

 

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