A flat, circular, plate-like structure containing cartilage that lines the joints between adjacent vertebrae (bones) in the spine. Each intervertebral disc is composed of a fibrous outer layer and a soft gelatinous core. It acts as a shock absorber to cushion the vertebrae during movements of the spine. With increasing age, intervertebral discs become less supple and more susceptible to damage from injury.
Disc, intervertebral |
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