The disc is the shock absorber between the back bones. It is like a gel filled sac. The covering of the sac has lots of layers like an onion. When the layers are all torn, the gel can squirt out and cause inflammation around the nerve roots. This is called a herniated disc. The resulting scar tissue and swelling can then put pressure on one of the spinal nerves. Recent research shows that the disc material actually slows down the function of the nerves. Herniated discs used to mean instant surgery. However, several research studies have shown that while surgery may help some people heal quicker, it doesn't help in the long run any more than just leaving the disc alone. Over time, the disc material in most people will be reabsorbed by the body. People who should still get surgery include those who are having weakness that's getting worse with time, and patients who have a lot of arthritis in their spine.
