Why Can Intervertebral Discs Absorb Shock?

The intervertebral discs exhibit a large amount of tensile strength, which allows them to absorb shock, is because they possess collagen fibers. ... Fibrocartilage has thick collagen fibers which provide tensile strength and flexibility.

How do intervertebral discs absorb shock?

The intervertebral disc functions to separate the vertebrae from each other and provides the surface for the shock-absorbing gel of the nucleus pulposus. The nucleus pulposus of the disc functions to distribute hydraulic pressure in all directions within each intervertebral disc under compressive loads.

What allows intervertebral discs to absorb?

Nucleus Pulposus as Shock Absorber

Each intervertebral disc is a shock-absorbing cushion that's located between adjacent spinal bones. The centralized nucleus pulposus is an essential component of the disc that helps provide it with its shock absorption properties.

James H. Sterling

James H. Sterling

Environmental Science & Climate Journalist

James Sterling reports on renewable energy developments, climate policy, ecological conservation, and green tech innovations around the globe.