The nucleus pulposus is a gel-like substance found in spinal discs that acts as a cushion and lubricant. Age-related degeneration and injuries can cause the substance to herniate, leading to back pain and nerve compression. Treatment options include rest, medication, and surgery.
The nucleus pulposus is the thick fluid found within the discs of the spine. It acts as a lubricant and cushion for the vertebrae, helping maintain flexibility in the back and relieving pressure from walking, jumping and twisting. The substance tends to gradually escalate with age, often leading to chronic back pain in older individuals. Back injuries that damage the discs and rupture the nucleus pulposus can cause the substance to herniate, potentially resulting in pain or paralysis.
The main component of the nucleus pulposus is collagen, a gelatinous set of protein fibers. Collagen is an important building block of muscles and connective tissue throughout the body, but it’s especially vital for maintaining a healthy, mobile spine. Water, keratin and other chemical compounds found in cartilage tissue make up the rest of the substance. The consistency of a disc’s pulpy core allows it to act a bit like a gelled insole of a shoe: it absorbs shocks and attenuates the effects of constant pressure.
A herniated disc occurs when the nucleus pulposus bulges from inside the disc, causing it to slip out of alignment in the spine. As a result, the vertebrae on either side of the disc compress and put pressure on the surrounding nerve tissue. Many factors can contribute to a herniated disc, but the most common cause is an acute spinal cord injury. A sudden impact from a car accident, an awkward turn while playing a sport, or a fall from a height onto your neck or back can all lead to hernia. Additionally, age-related degeneration and birth defects of the spinal cord or nucleus pulposus also increase the likelihood of slippage.
When a disc swells and herniates, it usually causes pain in the back and legs to gradually get worse. Without the nucleus pulposus to provide support, the vertebrae rub against each other roughly and cause inflammation. An individual usually has difficulty engaging in an activity due to immediate and sharp pains. If the nerves are compressed, a person may experience numbness or tingling sensations on one or both sides of the body. Prompt medical attention is important at the first signs of a herniated disc to provide the best chance of recovery.
A specialist can perform computed tomography (CT) scans and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) screens to identify a herniated disc. If the nucleus pulposus does not appear to be seriously damaged, a patient may simply need to rest and take anti-inflammatory medications to recover from symptoms. Surgery to remove damaged tissue, manually push a disc back into place, or fuse the vertebrae may be necessary if a serious or recurring problem occurs.
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