lülivaheketas
Lülivaheketas, also known as an intervertebral disc, is a cartilaginous cushion located between the vertebrae of the spine. These discs act as shock absorbers, distributing mechanical stress and allowing for movement of the spine. Each lülivaheketas consists of two main parts: the annulus fibrosus, a tough outer layer of fibrocartilage, and the nucleus pulposus, a gel-like inner core. The nucleus pulposus is composed primarily of water and proteoglycans, which gives it its resilient and fluid-like properties.
Over time, the lülivaheketas can undergo degenerative changes, a process often referred to as disc degeneration.
A herniated lülivaheketas can press on nearby spinal nerves, causing symptoms such as pain, numbness, or weakness