What condition results from a herniated intervertebral disc?

A herniated intervertebral disc occurs when the inner gel-like core of the disc protrudes through a tear in the outer layer. This herniation can lead to compression of nearby nerve roots. The correct answer highlights that this nerve root compression often results in specific symptoms, including radiating pain that extends down the leg, commonly referred to as sciatica. This pain can occur below the knee, depending on which nerve root is affected.

When a disc herniates, it can cause irritation and inflammation of the adjacent nerve roots. Consequently, individuals may experience numbness, tingling, or weakness in the lower extremities along with pain. This phenomenon explains why the correct answer focuses on nerve root compression causing below-knee pain, as this symptom is a common clinical presentation associated with herniated discs in the lumbar region.

Muscle spasms and joint inflammation can occur as secondary responses to the injury and pain but are not direct results of the herniation itself. Increased flexibility in the lower back contradicts the nature of a herniated disc, as such a condition typically leads to stiffness or reduced mobility due to pain. Therefore, the chosen answer correctly identifies the primary and significant consequence of a herniated intervertebral