Herniated Disc Causes Are Mainly Natural

As we age, our bodies naturally degenerate, and there is no way to get around it. Our back and spinal column are certainly no exception to this degeneration. Herniated disc causes, as well as the causes of many other spinal conditions, can be seen as merely a result of nature because the intervertebral discs in our spine gradually lose their ability to absorb the water and nutrients they need to function properly as shock absorbers and cushions for the vertebrae. When the discs aren't taking in as much water as they once did, they become stiff and fibrous, rather than soft and flexible. The stiff texture and lack of flexibility leaves the discs vulnerable to tearing (or "herniating"), and many times intervertebral discs will tear and allow the inner fluid to seep out and irritate the disc wall, nearby nerve roots, or the spinal cord.

Traumatic Injuries Can Be Herniated Disc Causes

Another way people suffer from a herniated disc is by way of a traumatic injury. These injuries can happen while playing sports, lifting heavy objects, being in a car accident, or in a number of other situations that put extreme pressure on the spine. Football players, wrestlers, and gymnasts are especially prone to suffering an injury that can lead to a herniated disc due to specific frequent movements these sports involve, including back hyperextension. When the back receives a great deal of stress, the additional load is absorbed by the intervertebral discs, and when too much stress is incurred, a disc may be pushed beyond its limit and herniate.

Is a Herniated Disc Similar to an Abdominal Hernia?

The two conditions are loosely related, since the term "hernia" describes the protrusion of an organ or tissue through an opening in its surrounding walls. An abdominal hernia involves a weak area or tearing of the abdominal wall which allows fatty tissue and/or membrane-covered organs to protrude. However, abdominal hernias can be found in people much younger than those with herniated discs. Also, abdominal hernias have different symptoms than do herniated discs. Abdominal hernias can cause excruciating pain in the abdominal area, but the pain usually does not radiate to other parts of the body, while pain can radiate from a herniated disc. Abdominal hernia and herniated disc causes are similar, though, in that the tears in both are a result of the weakening of their respective areas.