Exposure of the Nucleus Pulposus to the Outside of the Anulus Fibrosus Induces Nerve Injury and Regeneration of the Afferent Fibers Innervating the Lumbar Intervertebral Discs in Rats

Abstract

ATF3-IR and GAP-43-IR neurons were significantly increased in the NP group. These results suggested that exposure of the nucleus pulposus to the outside of the anulus fibrosus induced nerve injury and in growth into the discs. These findings may explain discogenic lower back pain in patients with lumbar disc degeneration.