Each disc consists of the nucleus, which is the central part of the disc and the annulus, which is the ring which encompasses the nucleus.

The nucleus is a gel-like, semi-fluid substance which works as a shock absorber and a distributor of the load between the two adjacent vertebrae. The annulus, which is much more rigid because it consists of fibrous tissue contains the nucleus and prevents it from leaking.

If there are small fissures in the annulus, the content of the nucleus can leak through the annulus, which creates the disc herniation. Not each herniation will be painful to the patient, but if it compresses the spinal nerves or some pain receptors, it can manifest itself by the patient having low back pain, quite often radiating to the patient's leg.

A herniated disc may be caused by wear and tear of the disc. As you age, your discs dry out and aren't as flexible. Injury to the spine, may cause tiny tears or cracks in the hard outer layer of the disc. Poor eating lifestyle such as high refined carbohydrates such as white flour products, white rice, candy, some wheat products and so on.

There are many modalities that can be utilized to help patients with low back problems. The patient's response to these modalities is almost as broad as the area of alternative medicine itself. Chiropractic care along with an adjunct therapy such as muscle stimulation and/or spinal decompression is of course the first line of help. Followed up with dietary supplementation to support musculoskeletal injury, patients may want to utilize a diet such as anti-inflammatory diets, or supplements to help control their symptoms.

The symptoms of a herniated disc are pain, numbness, tingling and weakness along the nerves involved. For example, in the low back, anywhere along the sciatic nerve can be affected. The sciatic nerve runs from the low back down through the gluteus maximus (buttock muscle) down the back of the knee and to the toes.

Steps to strengthen your low back should be discussed with your Chiropractor but, generally, exercise, lose weight if you are overweight and quit smoking if you smoke.