Anatomy Of Intervertebral Disc

They also serve to protect the nerves that run down the middle of the spine and intervertebral disks. A disc is a soft tissue which helps to cushion the vertebral bones inside the spine.

Intervertebral Disk Disease Meadows Veterinary Clinic Of

Understanding intervertebral disc anatomy is the first step in defeating herniated disc pain.

Anatomy of intervertebral disc. There are a total of 24 disks in the human spine. Without intervertebral discs the spine would simply be a rigid column of bone but with the addition of discs the spine is a marvel of strength and flexibility. The annulus is a sturdy tire like structure that encases a gel like center the nucleus pulposus.

As the disc ages degeneration occurs osmotic pressure is lost in the nucleus dehydration occurs and the disc loses its height. Section 1 chapter 1. Each disc is made up of two parts.

During these changes nociceptive nuclear material tracks and leaks through the outer rim of the annulus. This is the main source of discogenic pain. By means of osmosis each disc absorbs needed nutrients.

The bulk of the disc is made up of a central nucleus pulposus np and the surrounding anulus fibrosus af fig. The disc is flanked rostrally and caudally by cartilaginous end plates that serve as a transitional zone between the disc and the adjacent vertebral bodies. An intervertebral disk acts as shock absorber between each of the vertebrae in the spinal column by keeping the vertebrae separated when there is impact from activity.

The intervertebral discs are the largest structures in the body without a vascular supply. Anatomy of the lumbar intervertebral discs introduction. The embryology of the intervertebral disc begins during the fourth week.

The annulus fibrosus and the nucleus pulposus. The normal human spinal column contains 23 fibrocartilage intervertebral discs. The intervertebral disc is a.

Intervertebral Discs