Science today isn't the same as the science 2000 years ago was but some principles remain the same. The human knowledge constantly grows but with more knowledge there comes even more mysteries and unsolved questions, so science is always going forward.
Causes. The most common cause of a cervical herniated nucleus pulposus is gradual degeneration of the disc, attenuation (weakening) of the posterior annulus fibrosis, and subsequent protrusion of the nucleus pulposus into the spinal canal causing compression of the nerve root.
Herniated Nucleus Pulposus. Definition. A herniated disc is a fragment of the disc nucleus which is pushed out of the outer disc margin, into the spinal canal through a tear or rupture.. In the herniated disc's new position, it presses on spinal nerves, producing pain down the accompanying leg. This produces a sharp, severe pain down the entire leg and into the foot.