Spinal discs form a very important part of the spinal cord. They are a rubbery substance like a ‘jelly donut’ that is located in between two vertebrae working as a shock absorber. As we move, our vertebrae adjust our spine to keep us upright. With no discs in between, our bones will collide with each other.
When stressed, a disc’s hard shell-like outer membrane may not be enough to support the swelling and the disc develops tear/s. This means that now there is no ‘jelly’ material between the vertebrae. A herniated disc may or may not start with pain depending on its location with surrounding structres. Sometimes, the pain is intense in the beginning and then fades away over time. Sometimes, the pain gradually increases over time and restricts movement. If not dealt with, the pain can then spread into the leg or the arm.