A herniated nucleus pulposus involves an intervertebral disc that has developed a tear or fissure in its outer wall (annulus fibrosus), which then allows the disc’s inner fluid (nucleus pulposus) to seep through the tear. This condition is often referred to as simply a herniated disc or a prolapsed disc. Understanding the composition of the intervertebral discs and their role in maintaining the structural integrity of the spine will provide a clearer picture of how and why a herniated nucleus pulposus can have adverse effects on the entire body.

There are approximately 24 discs in the human spine, each of which separates two adjacent vertebrae. The discs play a ligamentous role by connecting the vertebrae, and they also lend flexibility to the spine. Their primary purpose, however, is to absorb the shock and stress that the spine is exposed to on a daily basis. The unique composition of the discs allows them to play these various roles. The nucleus pulposus has a gelatinous consistency and contains mostly water, protein, and collagen. It is contained by the annulus fibrosus wall, which is made up of about 20 layers of tough fibrocartilage. Together, the inner matrix and the strong outer wall create a highly pressurized structure, a bit like an inflated inner tube, that can sustain stress while still being pliable.

Causes of a Herniated Nucleus Pulposus

The intervertebral discs are designed to withstand years of wear and tear throughout our lives. However, like any other part of our body, they tend to deteriorate over time. Just as people lose elasticity in their skin as they grow older, the discs’ elasticity also decreases due to dehydration and loss of collagen – in a sense, the “inner tube” begins to deflate. When this happens, the disc may bulge out to one side or it may develop a fissure that allows the nucleus pulposus to seep out.

The aging process, although the primary cause of a herniated nucleus pulposus, is not the only way this condition can develop. Other contributing factors include:

– Traumatic injury

– Extended periods of overexertion

– Poor posture

– Smoking

– Genetic abnormalities

Symptoms & Treatment Options

A herniated nucleus pulposus does not always cause symptoms. In fact, someone could have a herniated disc for years and never experience any type of discomfort. When symptoms do arise, it is usually because the extruded nucleus pulposus has irritated tiny nerve fibers in the disc’s outer wall, or because it has leaked outside of the disc and is pressing on a nearby spinal nerve root or the spinal cord itself. Nerve fiber irritation in the annular wall will likely cause localized discomfort, but pain due to nerve root compression (radiculopathy) or spinal cord compression (myelopathy) can take many forms, including:

– Traveling pain

– A tingling sensation that radiates through the extremities

– Muscle weakness in the upper or lower limbs

The above symptoms tend to affect not just the spine, but also the areas of the body that are innervated by the nerve tissue (nerve roots or the spinal cord) being compressed by the herniated disc. Because nerve roots and the spinal cord give rise to all the other nerves that travel throughout the body, the pain, tingling, and weakness can be far reaching.

The majority of people who have a symptomatic herniated nucleus pulposus will likely be able to manage their discomfort with a combination of conservative (non-surgical) treatments. Always see your doctor for a proper diagnosis so that he or she can prescribe a treatment regimen tailored to your specific needs. Common conservative treatments include physical therapy, gentle stretching, low-impact exercise, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroid injections, and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS). Some patients also find it beneficial to supplement these treatments with alternative therapies such as acupuncture, acupressure, or massage.

Patrick Foote is the Director of eBusiness at Laser Spine Institute, the leader in endoscopic spine surgery. Laser Spine Institute specializes in safe and effective outpatient procedures for herniated nucleus pulposus and several other degenerative spinal conditions.

Patrick Foote is the Director of eBusiness at Laser Spine Institute, the leader in endoscopic spine surgery. Laser Spine Institute specializes in safe and effective outpatient procedures for herniated nucleus pulposus and other spinal conditions. http://www.laserspineinstitute.com/back_problems/hnp/

Author Bio: Patrick Foote is the Director of eBusiness at Laser Spine Institute, the leader in endoscopic spine surgery. Laser Spine Institute specializes in safe and effective outpatient procedures for herniated nucleus pulposus and several other degenerative spinal conditions.

Category: Medicines and Remedies
Keywords: herniated nucleus pulposus