When discs rupture, the gummy inner material herniates or squeezes out between the supporting fibers of the covering. This material is under pressure and can press against the spinal cord itself or, more commonly, against a spinal nerve, causing pain, tingling, weakness and other signs of nerve malfunction. With rest, the herniated disc may return to its original position and symptoms can disappear. In addition, chiropractic manipulation and physical therapy may hasten the healing process. However, if the disc is badly damaged, surgery is often necessary to repair or remove it.
Discs herniate because of a congenital weakness of the supporting fibers.
Therefore, even if an old disc has been repaired, others may cause trouble eventually, unless patients take special care of their backs. Thus, people who have had difficulty with one disc are more prone to symptoms from others.