A herniated disc is a medical condition that affects one of the fibrous rings between the individual bones of the spine. When the tougher, outer portion of a fibrous ring tears, the softer central portion of the ring bulges outward. This may result in pain or weakness of an arm or leg.
The lowest two joints of the spine and the base of the neck are typical locations for a herniated disc. A herniated disc is typically the result of gradual wear and tear due to aging. Trauma will rarely result in a herniated disc. Although a herniated disc is most common in older patients, disc degeneration can occur in young adults as well.
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