Become Pain Free | Pain Specialist in Texas

Pain Free Blog
Become Pain Free is a group of doctors specializing in pain relief.

Spinal Disc Problems

Back pain has many causes, many of which involve the discs in the spine. Discs are cushions that are located between each vertebrae that makes up the spine. Discs can deteriorate over time, possibly leading to several potential spinal disc problems. Normal Disc A normal, healthy disc provides cushioning between the bones, or vertebra, that make up the spine. A disc is round, but flattened at the top and bottom, and is flexible to provide shock absorption and act as connective tissue between vertebra. Each spinal disc is made up of a firmer collagen outer layer with a softer fiber and gelatinous center. Over time, loss of hydration may lead to discs becoming stiffer or more brittle, leading to potential problems. Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) is not really a disease and is typically used to refer to the natural degeneration that occurs to discs over time. Loss of fluid causes discs to become thinner and stiffer. Degenerative Disc Disease may include inflammation within the inner portion of the disc or stiffening of the outer portion, resulting in micromotion instability and small cracks or tears. DDD does not always cause pain or other symptoms, but this condition may lead to the development of other spinal disc problems. Bulging Disc Due to weakening and thinning of the tough outer layer of the disc, the inner filling may press beyond its natural boundaries, forcing part of the outer layer to extend beyond its normal range, resulting in a protrusion of an area of the disc. Bulging discs typically have no symptoms, unless the protruding area presses on surrounding nerves. Herniated Disc If there are tiny cracks in the outer layer of the disc, pressure can allow some of the gelatinous fluid from the inner core to leak out of the disc and protrude into the spinal column. While it is possible that a herniated disc may have no symptoms, it is more likely because the protruding inner core is likely to press on surrounding nerves. Thinning Disc Thinning, or flattening, of spinal discs is a normal occurrence of DDD. Problems can occur if parts of the weakened disc break off and press on nerves or affect normal spinal movement. Thinning discs may allow bones in the spine to rub together, leading to pain and additional problems. Disc Degeneration with Osteophyte Formation As discs thin with DDD, less space is available between vertebrae. Osteophytes, or bone spurs, can develop to compensate for the thinning space. Osteophytes may cause no symptoms, or they may grow large enough to press on nerves. No matter what is causing your back pain, Become Pain Free has a medical specialist who will work to help you become pain-free. Make an appointment today by calling us today at (214) 396-3647 or toll-free at (888) 373-3720. The sooner you call, the quicker you can get back to living your life instead of living in pain.