Soft tissue injury – injury to the soft tissues – the muscle, tendons, and ligaments – commonly referred to as a sprain/strain type injury. Although typically not as serious as other back injuries, this can cause significant pain and may take considerable time to heal.
Degenerative disc disease – a decrease in the thickness of the disc secondary to “wear and tear”. It is more common as we get older.
Disc bulge – when the outer fibers of the disc weaken allowing the disc to extend past its natural boundaries.
Herniated Disc– when there is a break (tear) in the outer fibers of the disc which allows the soft gelatinous material to extend through this outer barrier. A disc bulge/herniation and/or arthritis can limit the amount of space that the spinal cord and the nerve roots occupy. Any inflammation in this area can further crowd the nerve tissue causing nerve irritation and pain. Continued compression of the nerve can result in nerve damage if not relieved.

More Patient Education Topics: Spine Animations | Definitions | Detailed Images