Non-linear finite element analysis of formation and treatment of intervertebral disc herniae

A biomechanical model of the spine motion segment L2/L3 consisting of the truncated vertebrae, endplates, intervertebral disc and pieces of anterior and posterior longitudinal ligaments has been used for a computer simulation study. A non-linear finite element analysis has shown that small loads compressing the spine, not greater than those occurring in everyday life, cause loss of stability of an intervertebral disc, resulting in lateral dislocation of its nucleus pulposus. This could be a potential cause of discopathy. The model indicates that conservative therapy of herniated disc by the traction method may result in retraction of hernia by about 40 per cent.