Which Intervertebral Discs Are Most Likely to Be Herniated?

Disc herniation is most common in the lumbar spine, followed by the cervical spine. There is a higher rate of disc herniation in the lumbar and cervical spine due to the biomechanical forces in the flexible part of the spine. The thoracic spine has a lower rate of disc herniation[4][5].

Which intervertebral disc is most commonly herniated?

Pathophysiology. The majority of spinal disc herniations occur in the lumbar spine (95% at L4–L5 or L5–S1). The second most common site is the cervical region (C5–C6, C6–C7). The thoracic region accounts for only 1–2% of cases.

What part of an intervertebral disc can herniate?

Herniated discs can occur in any part of the spine. Herniated discs are more common in the lower back (lumbar spine), but also occur in the neck (cervical spine). The area in which pain is experienced depends on what part of the spine is affected.