Which part of the spine is most commonly affected by herniated discs?

The lumbar spine is the most commonly affected area by herniated discs due to its structural and functional characteristics. This region bears a significant amount of weight and is responsible for a large range of motion, which places a considerable amount of stress on the intervertebral discs. The lower back (lumbar region) is particularly susceptible to injury as it supports the upper body's weight and is involved in movements like bending and lifting.

The lumbar discs experience the most wear and tear over time, leading to a higher incidence of herniation. When these discs herniate, they can press on nearby nerves, resulting in symptoms such as pain, numbness, or weakness, often radiating down the legs (sciatica). This increased prevalence in the lumbar region makes it the most commonly affected part of the spine in cases of herniated discs compared to other areas, such as the cervical or thoracic spines, where such occurrences are less frequent.