Annular Fissure Symptoms
Most annular fissures are asymptomatic, but some may cause inflammation and become symptomatic.
These symptoms can also be similar to aherniated disc(a possible complication of an annular fissure).
The layers of theannulus fibrosuscrisscross each other to provide a scaffolding of support.
Verywell / Jessica Olah
The design makes the covering of the disc strong enough to hold the liquid nucleus material inside it.
In fact, most of the time, the tears are resulting from age-related degenerative changes in the disc.
These changes can lead to degeneration in other areas of the spine as well.
Anti-inflammatory medication and physical therapy are the first lines of treatment.Pain medication can be either over-the-counter or prescription.
Physical therapy treatment for annular fissures includes exercises, traction, and other therapies.
In severe cases, surgery may be explored, includingdisc replacement surgery.
On its own, having an annular tear is not a reason to have disc replacement surgery.
It is only when there are degenerative changes in the vertebral disc that surgery might be necessary.
How Long Does It Take to Recover from Lower Back Problems?
However, you may have lower back pain that keeps coming back (recurring).
Strengthening your core and back could help reduce future problems.
Summary
An annular fissure is most commonly triggered by age-related degenerative changes to your spine.
It is often asymptomatic, but when inflammation occurs, it can cause pain.
Management of symptoms is typically conservative and starts with making lifestyle changes and starting low-impact exercises.
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A prospective 1-year follow-up study.Int J Spine Surg.2012;6:13-7. doi:10.1016/j.ijsp.2011.09.001
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