What is the water content range of the nucleus pulposus?

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Multiple Choice

What is the water content range of the nucleus pulposus?

The amount of water in the nucleus pulposus is what gives it its gel-like, cushions the spine role. In a healthy disc, this water content is about 70-90%. The nucleus pulposus is rich in proteoglycans that attract water, creating high osmotic pressure so the core stays hydrated under load. That hydration lets the nucleus distribute compressive forces and rebound after movement, helping maintain disc height and flexibility. As discs age or degenerate, water content drops, which reduces cushioning and height. So ranges in the 20-30% or 50-60% area are too low for a healthy nucleus, and 90-100% isn’t realistic because there’s always a solid matrix present. The best answer is about 70-90%.

The amount of water in the nucleus pulposus is what gives it its gel-like, cushions the spine role. In a healthy disc, this water content is about 70-90%. The nucleus pulposus is rich in proteoglycans that attract water, creating high osmotic pressure so the core stays hydrated under load. That hydration lets the nucleus distribute compressive forces and rebound after movement, helping maintain disc height and flexibility. As discs age or degenerate, water content drops, which reduces cushioning and height. So ranges in the 20-30% or 50-60% area are too low for a healthy nucleus, and 90-100% isn’t realistic because there’s always a solid matrix present. The best answer is about 70-90%.

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