What Causes Disc Problems?

For clarity, the intervertebral discs serve as cushion-like structures between the vertebrae, preventing bone-on-bone contact and providing the necessary flexibility for safe movement. When these discs become injured or degenerate, it often results in persistent pain and limited mobility.

Ruptured disc material can impinge on a nerve, leading to significant discomfort. It is important to understand that disc tissue is among the slowest healing tissues in the body; therefore, untreated disc issues are likely to deteriorate rather than improve.

In daily life, a typical disc injury or degenerative disc condition is continually aggravated by normal movements and the downward pressure of body weight. Consequently, it is difficult for discs to heal on their own. This situation is akin to someone fracturing their foot and continuing to walk on it, preventing proper recovery.

If you were to sustain a foot fracture, you could easily immobilize it in a cast and use crutches to facilitate healing. Unfortunately, it is not possible to completely refrain from using your back or neck. Even during bed rest, you still rely on your back and neck muscles every time you move. Additionally, inactivity can weaken the back muscles, increasing the risk of re-injury upon resuming normal activity. For optimal healing of the disc, it is essential to alleviate pressure from the spine—an ongoing challenge due to the constant gravitational force acting on the discs throughout daily life.