Disc Degeneration: In childhood, discs are made up of approximately 80% water. As the body ages, this percentage decreases as a natural part of the aging process. As the discs dry, they become less flexible and more vulnerable to damage.
Injury or Trauma to the Spine: Trauma may occur over time (as the result of consistently poor posture, for example) or from an abrupt occurrence such as an auto accident or sports injury.