In which region of the spine do the majority of herniated discs occur?

The majority of herniated discs occur in the lumbar region of the spine, which comprises the lower back. This area is particularly prone to disc herniation due to the significant amount of weight it bears and the range of motion required during various activities. The lumbar spine consists of five vertebrae (L1-L5) and serves as a crucial support structure for the body's upright posture and movement.

Herniated discs in this region often result from age-related degeneration, repetitive strain, or sudden trauma, leading to the nucleus pulposus, the gel-like center of the disc, protruding through the annulus fibrosus, the tougher outer layer. This condition can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the legs if the herniated disc presses on nearby nerves.

While herniated discs can occur in any part of the spine, including the cervical and thoracic regions, they are far less common in those areas compared to the lumbar region. The thoracic region, which is the middle part of the spine, experiences less movement and stress, thus reducing the likelihood of herniation. Similarly, the cervical and sacral regions are not as frequently associated with disc herniation issues as the lumbar region.