What is a Herniated Disc?

The disc is a fluid-filled sac surrounded by a tire-like structure. The disc acts as a cushion between the bones of the spine and helps protect the nerves. A disc “herniates” when the tire wall breaks and the fluid leaks out. This can put pressure on a nerve and in severe cases on the spinal cord. Lumbar (or lower back) disc herniations are the most common followed by the cervical spine (neck). A disc can herniate suddenly due to trauma or slowly over time due to long-term pressure on the spine, such as prolonged sitting with poor posture.