Disc Injury The disc is a small cartilage pad that is situated between spinal bones. The soft jellylike center is contained by surrounding layers of fibrous tissues. Each disc serves as a connector, space, and shock absorber for the spine. When healthy, discs allow normal turning and bending. Since spinal discs have a very poor blood supply, they depend upon the circulation of joint fluids to bring in nutrients and expel waste. If a spinal joint loses its normal motion or position and this pumping action is impaired, the health of the disc and deteriorate. Like a wet sponge, a healthy disc is flexible. A dry sponge is hard, stiff and can crack easily. This is how many disc problems begin. Because of the way each disc is attached to the vertebrae above and below it, a disc cannot "slip" as commonly thought. However, trauma or injury can cause discs to bulge, herniate, or worse, rupture. This can be quite painful, putting pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots, interfering with their function. Dr. Lukonaitis will take the chiropractic approach to disc problems to help restore better motion and position to the spinal joints. Besides reducing disc bulging, better spinal function can help decrease inflammation and begin the slow process of healing in the surrounding soft tissues.