Plates of fibrocartilage placed between two vertebrae (special types of bones that form the spinal column), covering their inferior and superior surfaces: "The intervertebral discs play a primary use in weight bearing and a lesser degree in movement."

"The intervertebral discs or nucleus pulposus (soft moist solid) are fibro-cartilaginous discs that lie between the vertebral bodies in the spine."

These intervertebral disks are composed of a central gelatinous-like material that provide a cushioning or shock absorbing quality to the spinal column to axial stress. The discs may herniate or rupture, resulting in a condition known as a radiculopathy."

A painful rupture of the fibrocartilage of the disc between spinal vertebrae which occurs most often in the lumbar region of the back.