A Schmorl’s node, also known as an intervertebral disc herniation, is the protrusion of the cartilage of a disc through the adjacent vertebra. Instead of a typical disc herniation which protrudes into the spinal canal, this herniation protrudes into the vertebral body through a defect in the vertebral endplate.
Also known as intervertebral disc herniation
Incidence of Schmorl’s Nodes
In one study, Schmorl’s nodes were observed in 19% of patients with lumbar symptoms, and found incidentally in 9.4% of asymptomatic MRIs in a control group.