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Updated: Jul 8, 2026
06:22
Optical Sectioning and Visualization of the Intervertebral Disc from Embryonic Development to Degeneration
Published on: July 8, 2021
Intervertebral disc: anatomy-physiology-pathophysiology-treatment
1Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Management, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas, USA. prithviraj@fuse.net
Pain Practice : the Official Journal of World Institute of Pain
|January 24, 2008
Summary
Intervertebral disc degeneration causes pain by leaking nucleus pulposus material and compressing nerves, leading to spinal stenosis. New therapies aim to restore disc biochemistry and structure.
Area of Science:
- Spine anatomy and physiology
- Intervertebral disc pathophysiology
- Degenerative disc disease
Background:
- The intervertebral disc, composed of nucleus pulposus, annulus fibrosus, and cartilaginous end-plates, connects vertebral bodies.
- The disc receives limited blood supply to end-plates and innervation via the sinovertebral nerve.
- Key biochemical components include collagen, elastin, and aggrecan.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology, and treatment of intervertebral discs.
- To elucidate the mechanisms of discogenic pain and spinal stenosis.
- To explore current and emerging therapeutic strategies.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of intervertebral disc structure and function.
- Analysis of degenerative processes and their clinical manifestations.
- Examination of diagnostic protocols and treatment options.
Main Results:
- Disc aging leads to degeneration, loss of height, nucleus pulposus dehydration, and leakage of nociceptive material, causing discogenic pain.
- Degenerative disc height loss compresses adjacent structures, resulting in spinal stenosis and radicular pain.
- Diagnosis relies on a strict protocol, with various treatment options available.
Conclusions:
- Disc degeneration is a primary cause of back pain, spinal stenosis, and radicular pain in aging populations.
- Current and future treatments focus on biochemical restoration, nucleus augmentation, end-plate regeneration, and artificial disc replacement.
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