Sustained Loading Generates Stress Concentrations in Lumbar Intervertebral Discs

Abstract

Increased loading of the apophysial joints causes an overall reduction in intradiscal stresses after creep. In addition, water loss from the nucleus causes a transfer of load from nucleus to anulus. Stress concentrations may lead to pain, structural disruption, and alterations in chondrocyte metabolism. Disc mechanics depend on loading history as well as applied load.