Lumbar Disc Anatomy
The intervertebral discs are a soft “cushion like” structure that separate each of the lumbar vertebrae. Their purpose is to act as shock absorbers between the vertebrae, function as ligaments by holding the vertebrae together, and act as joints allowing the spine to bend and twist.
The disc is comprised of two primary elements:
• Nucleus Pulposus – a soft, gel-like inner substance contained within the anulus fibrosus.
• Anulus Fibrosus – tough, outer ring that surrounds and contains the nucleus pulposus.
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