Joints-9.4 intervertebral joints

Question 1

Describe the intervertebral disc

Answer 1

it separates the vertebral bodies
– Anulus fibrosus
* Tough outer layer of fibrocartilage
* Attaches disc to vertebrae
– Nucleus pulposus
* Elastic, gelatinous core
* Absorbs shocks
– Vertebral end plates of cartilage
* Cover superior and inferior surfaces of disc
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Question 2

What are some damages to intervertebral discs

Answer 2

– Bulging disc
* Bulge in anulus fibrosus
* Invades vertebral canal
– Herniated disc
* Nucleus pulposus breaks through anulus fibrosus
* Compresses spinal nerves
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