What is described as an injury to the intervertebral disc?

A herniated disc refers specifically to an injury involving the intervertebral disc, which can occur when the outer layer of the disc (the annulus fibrosus) weakens or tears, allowing the inner gel-like substance (the nucleus pulposus) to protrude through the outer layer. This bulging or herniation can then press on spinal nerves or the spinal cord, leading to pain, numbness, or weakness in the limbs.

In contrast, degenerative joint disease involves the degeneration of the joints and can affect the spine but does not specifically denote an injury to the intervertebral discs themselves. A fractured vertebra refers to a break in a vertebra, which may or may not relate to disc issues, and subluxation describes a misalignment of the vertebrae rather than damage to the discs. Thus, identifying a herniated disc highlights a direct injury affecting the intervertebral disc structure and function.