As patients become “wiser”, intervertebral discs begin to degenerate, leading to compression of spinal nerves branching out from the spinal cord.
The intervertebral disc is a mechanical structure that provides both structural support to the spine and provides mobility. Degeneration of the natural disc can cause patients to develop symptoms such as numbness, tingling, and weakness. Replacement of the degenerated disc in the neck, upper, or lower back with an artificial disc allows for motion to be sustained. Additionally, the restoration of normal vertebral disc height allows for the patients height to be marginally increased.