WHAT ARE ANNULAR DISC TEARS?
The spine is composed of two main structural components: the vertebrae and the intervertebral discs. The intervertebral disc lies between the vertebrae to absorb shock and to provide flexibility for bending and twisting of the spine. The intervertebral disc consists of the annulus fibrosus, a thick outer ring of fibrous cartilage, which surrounds a gelatinous core called the nucleus pulposus. An annular disc tear or fissure is a deficiency of one or more layers of the annulus fibrosus. The weakened outer layers of the intervertebral disc may lead to herniation of the nucleus pulposus, resulting in back pain and nerve root irritation.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF ANNULAR DISC TEARS?
- Localized back pain secondary to the tear
- Radicular pain (numbness, tingling, or weakness) secondary to irritation of the passing nerve root
WHAT CAUSES ANNULAR DISC TEARS?
- Traumatic injuries
- Repetitive overuse of heaving lifting
- Degenerative disc disease: gradual wear and tear
- Vertebral bone spurs
- Genetics: poor quality of collagen
HOW ARE ANNULAR DISC TEARS DIAGNOSED?
- Review of medical history and physical examination
- MRI is the most sensitive imaging modality
- Diagnostic injections
HOW ARE ANNULAR DISC TEARS TREATED?
- NSAIDS
- Low-impact physical therapy
- Therapeutic injections: steroid injections, regenerative injections
- Surgical interventions
CAN AN ANNULAR DISC TEAR HEAL ITSELF?
An annular disc tear can heal over time, but is susceptible to future tears and weaknesses. The annulus fibrosus has a limited blood supply, and may take up to 18 months to 2 years to heal on its own.
