Patient Education

Heart Health Library

Our Health Library does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their heart health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Spinal discs

Spinal discs are located between each of the 33 vertebrae, which are the interlocking bones of the spine that are stacked on top of one another. These discs act as shock absorbers for the spine and allow it to flex, bend, and twist.

The outer portion of a spinal disc, called the capsule (annulus fibrosus), is made of tough, elastic cartilage. The capsule surrounds a mass of jellylike material called the nucleus (nucleus pulposus).

Aging, injury, and illness can cause the spinal discs to crack or rupture. The jellylike nucleus can leak out, which can irritate or put pressure on the spinal nerves. Pain, numbness, and weakness may result, and sometimes surgery is needed.

Spinal discs are also called intervertebral discs.