About Disc Tear

A disc tear (also called an annular tear) refers to a small rupture in the outer layer (annulus fibrosus) of an intervertebral disc in the spine. These tears may not be visible externally but can lead to chronic back pain, inflammation, and even nerve compression if untreated.
At MASSH MANAS – Noida, our expert spine specialists use advanced diagnostics and minimally invasive care to detect and manage disc tears early—preventing further degeneration or complications.

Types of Disc Tears

1. Radial Tear

• Extends from the nucleus outward through the annulus
• May lead to herniation

2. Concentric Tear

• Circular tear between annular layers
• Common in degenerative disc disease

3. Transverse Tear

• Found at disc attachment to vertebrae
• Usually related to trauma

Common Signs and Symptoms of Disc Tear

• Localized lower back or neck pain
• Pain worsens with sitting, bending, or lifting
• Sharp or burning sensation radiating to hips or legs
• Stiffness or reduced flexibility
• Muscle spasms or weakness
• In some cases, no symptoms initially

Disc Tears Causes

• Sudden trauma or injury (e.g., heavy lifting or accidents)
• Degenerative disc disease due to aging
• Poor posture or prolonged sitting
• Sports injuries involving twisting or impact
• Repetitive strain on spine
• Spinal loading during exercise without support

Disc Tears Causes Risk Factors

• Age over 40
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Obesity
• Smoking
• Heavy lifting jobs or athletic strain
• Family history of spinal issues

Disc Tears Causes Complications if Untreated

• Disc herniation
• Nerve compression (sciatica or cervical radiculopathy)
• Chronic pain syndrome
• Mobility issues
• Reduced work capacity or quality of life
• Loss of bladder or bowel control (in severe lumbar disc cases)

Disc Tear Diagnosis

• Clinical examination
  
  • Spinal movement, nerve function, and pain pattern assessed
• MRI Scan
  
  • Most sensitive to detect annular tears and inflammation
• CT Discography
  
  • Specialized test for detecting inner disc tears
• X-ray
  
  • Helps rule out bone abnormalities

Disc Tear Treatment Options

Conservative Management

• Medications
  
  • NSAIDs, muscle relaxants, or nerve pain modulators
• Physiotherapy
  
  • Spine-strengthening exercises, posture training
• Activity modification
  
  • Avoid heavy lifting, sudden twisting
• Heat/Ice therapy
• Epidural Steroid Injections
  
  • For pain relief in inflamed discs

Advanced/Minimally Invasive Procedures

• Microdiscectomy or Endoscopic Discectomy
  
  • Removal of herniated disc material via a small incision
• Percutaneous Disc Decompression
• Laser Disc Repair (in select cases)
  
  • Performed at MASSH MANAS using 3D imaging guidance
• Spinal stabilization (if instability is present)