Spinal Disorders

Disc Herniation

• Cervical Disc Herniation
• Thoracic Disc Herniation
• Lumbar Disc Herniation

Disc Degeneration

Spinal Fracture

Kyphosis

Spinal Tumors

• Spinal Tumors (Benign)
• Spinal Malignancy

Spinal Stenosis

Spondylolisthesis

Scoliosis

Spinal Disorders >> Disc Herniation >> Cervical; Thoracic; Lumbar

Disc Herniation

Introduction

The spine is composed of 33 vertebrae, uniquely aligned to support the body and provide a passageway for the spinal cord and nerves. At the top of the spine are seven cervical (neck) vertebrae, followed by 12 thoracic (chest) vertebrae from which the 12 pairs of ribs originate. Next are 5 lumbar (low back) vertebrae, followed by the 5 fused sacral bones (the back of the pelvis) and 4 fused bones of the coccyx (tailbone).

Note: Dr. Regan's private practice offers additional information specific to cervical, thoracic, or lumbar disc herniation, select from the following links: Cervical Disc Herniation; Thoracic Disc Herniation; and Lumbar Disc Herniation.

What is disc herniation?

The cervical, thoracic and lumbar vertebrae are separated from each other by intervertebral discs which cushion and separate the vertebra, providing space for the nerves roots to exit the spinal canal. Discs are composed of cartilage that lies between the bony vertebral bodies of the spine. The disc and vertebral bodies are considered joints since there is motion.

The discs are composed of an outer wall of tough fibrous tissue called the annulus fibrosus, and a softer, inner substance called the nucleus pulposus. The nucleus pulposa contains water, which like a water filled balloon, gives cushioning to the disc. If a disc degenerates (a herniated disc), it flattens and puts pressure on the spinal cord. Because the space between the vertebrae is shorter, the bones may put pressure on the nerves also.

Again, the specific areas of disc herniation are described more thoroughly on this site via the following links: Cervical Disc Herniation; Thoracic Disc Herniation; and Lumbar Disc Herniation.

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