The spine is comprised of 24 bones known as vertebrae. Between the vertebrae are discs which are made up of a surrounding capsule and a gelatinous substance. The disc functions as a spacer between vertebrae to allow for motion between vertebrae and to act as a shock absorber.

Disc herniation is a protrusion of the disc or its gelatinous substance beyond its normal confines and into the spinal canal. This condition can produce pressure on the spinal cord or nerve root and may result in pain, numbness or weakness in the extremities or along the spine.

Diagnosis
An MRI (magnetic resonance image) or myelogram are used for definitive diagnosis. A myelogram is an injection of contrast material (dye) into the cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) which occurs in the sac surrounding the spinal cord. This tells us if there is pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots.

Treatment
Treatment may include a weight loss program, spinal stabilization (a regimented program of exercise to strengthen and stabilize the spine and proper biomechanics), a course of anti-inflammatory medication or a steroid injection into the epidural space (the epidural space is in the spine but just outside the spinal sac) to help decrease pain and inflammation. If conservative managment fails, surgery to remove the disc becomes an option.