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Spine Conditions A-Z

More Disc Tear Information

Disc Tear



tearing of the discs annular tissue

Understanding the Vertebral Disc and the Role it Plays

Before we can understand exactly what a torn disc is and what affect it will have on us, we need to first understand the vertebral disc and its functions. The two main parts of the vertebral disc are the annulus fibrosis and the nucleus pulposus. The Annulus is the tough outer shell that contains the nucleus, a soft gel like substance. There is a disc located between each of our vertebrae in the spine providing us with stability, and acting like a shock absorber.

What Is a Torn Disc?

The term disc tear, or torn disc, generally refers to a tearing of the discs annular tissue, the outer layer of the spinal disc. Disc tear is typically caused by a combination of disc degeneration and trauma. When this combination occurs, the central disc material (nucleus) often moves into the torn area of the outer layer of the disc, forming an interpositional disc herniation. A disc tear could also allow for the nucleus to move through the torn disc to the outside of the disc annulus, causing a disc herniation.

The Difference between a Healthy Disc and a Disc Tear

A healthy disc is composed of a tough outer shell and a soft inner material called the nucleus pulposus. When a disc tears, the tough outer shell either cracks or tears allowing the inner material to seep through, causing painful symptoms.

The figures below show the differences between a healthy disc and a torn disc.

Healthy Disc A Healthy Spinal Disc

Figure 1a. Healthy and strong vertebral disc.

Torn Disc Torn Disc

Figure 1b. Disc degeneration that has resulted in a torn disc.


Are you suffering from a disc tear?

To help determine if you are suffering from a disc tear, we offer a very simple 3 step process that will help provide you the answers you need to make the most informed decision you can on what treatment is best for you.

Begin 3 Step Diagnosis Process

Need assistance, or for answers to any questions you have please contact us now or call (877) 272-4535.