What causes an annular tear or fissure?

An annular tear or fissure is typically caused by degeneration of the intervertebral disc due to age-related wear and tear, which can weaken the outer layer (annulus fibrosus) of the disc. Other contributing factors include repetitive strain from heavy lifting or twisting motions, trauma or injury to the spine, and conditions like obesity that increase pressure on the discs. Additionally, genetic predisposition and a sedentary lifestyle can also play a role in the development of these tears.