Herniated discs are among the most common conditions seen in physical therapy and rehabilitation. While they’re often linked to a sudden movement or poor lifting technique, current scientific evidence shows that their causes are multifactorial—a combination of genetic, degenerative, mechanical, occupational, and lifestyle factors. Understanding this complexity is essential for both prevention and treatment.
Main Identified Causes
Degenerative Changes and Aging
Aging is one of the key factors. Over time, biochemical and cellular changes occur in the intervertebral disc, reducing its ability to withstand loads. These changes affect collagen, proteoglycans, and the extracellular matrix, increasing the risk of fissures, protrusions, and eventually herniation. While these changes are a normal part of tissue aging, when combined with other factors, they increase the risk of injury.
Genetics
Recent studies show that certain genes predispose individuals to disc degeneration. Mutations in collagen-related genes (such as Col9a2 and Col9a3) or in vitamin D receptors have been linked to a higher risk of developing herniated discs. Genetic predisposition alone does not guarantee the condition, but it amplifies the effect of other risk factors.
Mechanical, Occupational, and Environmental Factors
Mechanical overload is another major contributor. Strenuous physical activity, repetitive heavy lifting, awkward postures, or prolonged exposure to vibration all increase the likelihood of herniation. Risks are also seen in jobs that require long hours standing, office work with poor ergonomics, or repetitive tasks.
- Frequent load handling
- Prolonged static postures
- Vibration exposure (e.g., heavy machinery operators)
- Poor ergonomics in office environments
Other Contributing Factors
- Smoking: reduces disc microcirculation, accelerating degeneration.
- Overweight and obesity: increase mechanical load on the spine, raising the risk of herniation.
- Sedentary lifestyle: weakens supporting muscles and reduces spinal stability.
A Multifactorial Origin
Current scientific literature concludes that herniated discs rarely stem from a single cause. The interplay between genetic predisposition, aging, mechanical overload, and environmental factors sets the stage for this condition. That’s why clinical management must be comprehensive, addressing both prevention and early intervention.
Prevention and Physical Therapy Approach
Systematic reviews highlight that reducing the incidence of herniated discs depends largely on identifying and modifying occupational and lifestyle risk factors. Tailored physical training, postural education, and early intervention are essential strategies.
The Role of TRAK in Telerehabilitation
TRAK Active is a powerful tool in this context. The platform enables:
- Access to personalized therapeutic exercise programs based on scientific evidence.
- Digital monitoring that improves treatment adherence.
- AI-powered automatic correction to optimize movement execution.
- Support for secondary prevention in patients with a history of herniated discs.
In this way, TRAK not only helps patients recover but also provides professionals with a robust tool to monitor progress and adjust exercise loads remotely.
Conclusion
Herniated discs result from a complex interaction of genetic, degenerative, mechanical, and environmental factors. Rather than a single trigger, the evidence points to a multifactorial origin. In this context, physical therapy and telerehabilitation provide an effective framework for prevention and treatment. Digital tools like TRAK allow for personalized care, better adherence, and continuous professional monitoring. Ultimately, the key lies in a comprehensive approach: identifying risk factors, intervening early, and using technology as an ally.
Frequently Asked Questions About Herniated Discs (FAQs)
Not necessarily. Evidence shows that movement itself is not harmful. The risk arises with repetitive overload, poor ergonomics, or genetic predisposition.
There’s no consensus on a single “perfect” lifting posture. What matters is movement efficiency and postural variability. Problems occur when the same loading pattern is repeated excessively.
Yes. Platforms like TRAK provide guided exercise programs, real-time correction, and professional follow-up, all of which improve recovery and adherence.
Smoking reduces blood supply and disc metabolism, accelerating degeneration and increasing the risk of herniation.
Not always, due to their multifactorial nature. However, improving ergonomics, practicing therapeutic exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding smoking can significantly reduce the risk.