Intervertebral Discs

Nucleus pulposus

Inside of the anulus fibrosus is a gel-like core called the nucleus pulposus. made of collagen and elastic fibers and has a high water content that serves to resist compression associated with supporting the body's weight. sandwiched by a thin layer of hyaline cartilage, called the cartilage end-plates which help adhere the intervertebral disc to the vertebrae and hold the disc in place.

Anulus fibrosus

The anulus fibrosus is a tough, fibrous ring structure made of collagen and is firmly anchored to the outer margins of the adjacent vertebral bodies.

Describe how degeneration of intervertebral discs leads to pain.

The water content of the nucleus pulposus gradually declines with increasing age, leading to disc degeneration. This alters disc height as well as the mechanics of movement of the spinal column, reducing the flexibility and range of motion of the disc.

Name the type of joint represented by intervertebral discs.

fibrocartilaginous joint (a symphysis), to allow slight movement of the vertebrae, to act as a ligament to hold the vertebrae together, and to function as a shock absorber for the spine.

Most common disorder presented to spinal surgeons and what is it?

herniated disc; when the posterior anulus fibrosus is weakened due to injury or increasing age, the pressure exerted on the disc when bending forward and lifting a heavy object can cause the nucleus pulposus to protrude posteriorly through the anulus fibrosus, resulting in a herniated disc ("ruptured" or "slipped" disc).