INTERVERTEBRAL DISKS

The Intervertebral Discs are flat, round "cushions" that act as shock absorbers between each Vertebra in your spine. There is one Disc between each Vertebra.

Intervertebral disks are made up of two components:

• NUCLEUS PULPOSUS. The Nucleus Pulposus is jelly-like and makes up the center of the disk. The jelly is partly made of water and gives the disk flexibility and strength.
• ANNULUS FIBROSUS. This is the flexible outer ring of the disk. It is made up of several layers, similar to elastic bands.

When you are standing or moving, weight is put onto the Nucleus. In response, the Nucleus expands. The Annulus holds the Nucleus in place. This allows movement to take place, yet maintains the strength of the spine.

THE INTERVERTEBRAL DISK is a very important structure as many nerve endings supply the Annulus and, as a result, an injured Annulus can cause incredible pain.

Different conditions effecting the INTERVERTEBRAL DISK include: