Degeneration of the intervertebral disc from a combination of factors can result in herniation, particularly at the L4-5 and L5-S1 levels. The intervertebral disc is responsible for the attachment of vertebral bodies to each other, providing flexibility and absorbing and distributing the weight applied to the spinal column. With aging, the disc undergoes significant changes in volume and shape. Lumbar disc herniations are believed to result from anular degeneration that leads to a weakening of the anulus fibrosus, leaving the disc susceptible to anular cracking and tearing. MRI is the imaging of choice to evaluate intervertebral disc herniations, but CT and xray can also be used.
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