I have been told I have a herniated disc. Just what is a herniated disc?

A herniated disc is one of the most common reasons for long term disability in young people in North America. Basically, all of us have a jelly like substance in the vertebral joints. This substance playa a vital role in protecting the nerves and also cushions the joints from compressing against each other. Sometimes, during trauma or lifting weights this jelly-like substance leaks and impinges on the nerves which are leaving the spinal cord. When the nerves are pinched or compressed, the patient feels pain. When a herniated disc develops, it can limit how an individual functions on a daily basis- the chief reason is because of continuous pain. The pain is a dull ache which often radiates to the back of the legs. The majority of herniated discs occur in the lower back.