in the spine spinal vertebrae protect the spinal cord Between the vertebrae are soft discs that act like shock absorbers. in older age These intervertebral discs can soften and bulge. Herniated discs can press on nerves coming from the spinal cord and cause symptoms. Herniated discs are called herniated discs. These bulges can occur anywhere along the spine, from the neck to the lower back. Herniated discs affect men and women and are most common in people between the ages of 30 and 50. Most people get better after treatment.