The spine is made of bones called vertebrae, with soft cushions called discs between them. These discs act like shock absorbers and let the back bend and twist. A disc problem happens when one of these cushions is damaged, worn, bulging, or pressing on nearby nerves. Disc problems are a common cause of neck and back pain.
Signs depend on where the disc is and whether it presses on a nerve. People may feel back or neck pain, stiffness, or pain that travels into an arm or leg. Some feel tingling, numbness, or weakness. Common causes include normal aging, which dries out and thins the discs, along with injury, heavy lifting, repeated strain, and genetics. Sometimes a disc problem shows up on a scan but causes no symptoms at all.
Stem Cells Transplant Institute is a stem cell clinic in the San José area of Costa Rica (Escazú) with an in-house laboratory, serving international patients. Clinicians Dr. Heidy Chaves — Medical Officer...