Your spine is cushioned by discs that contain a jelly-like material held within a tough outer capsule. These discs between each vertebra enable you to turn, twist, stretch and bend the spine without the pain of bone rubbing against bone. Unfortunately, normal aging and wear cause the discs to degenerate. When these discs are put under pressure, move out of place or burst (herniate), pain results either in the neck or back or along the nerve pathway that radiates out from your spine. Disc problems can occur anywhere along the spine, but they are most common in the neck (cervical) or lower (lumber) regions.

To familiarize yourself with the anatomy of the spine and neck, see our Healthwise section on the spinal cord.

For more information on disc conditions, select one of the following:

• Cervical Disc Conditions
• Degenerative Disc Disease
• Herniated Disc