Intervertebral discs are primarily composed of fibrous cartilage, specifically called fibrocartilage. This unique type of tissue is crucial for providing support and flexibility between the vertebrae in the spine.
Each intervertebral disc consists of two main components: the annulus fibrosus and the nucleus pulposus. The annulus fibrosus is the tough outer layer made of several concentric rings of fibrocartilage that help contain and protect the inner material. It provides tensile strength, allowing the discs to withstand pressures from various movements and loads. The nucleus pulposus, on the other hand, is a softer, gel-like core that acts as a shock absorber, distributing force and allowing for a degree of movement.
This combination of fibrocartilage allows intervertebral discs to be resilient and capable of enduring the stresses of everyday activities while maintaining flexibility in the spine.