TISSUE TIGHTNESS DISPOSES TO DISC HERNIA

It seems likely that the tightness of tissue influences a patient's di sposition to disc hernia. The aim of this study was to compare the mec hanical behaviour of tissue from disc hernia patients with that of con trols. A computerized finger hyperextensometer was constructed, which allowed the measurement of the viscoelastic properties of the capsule and ligaments at the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint. The disc group s howed a reduced maximal extension angle of MCP joint II (P < 0.01), re duced tissue recovery value (P < 0.05), reduced relative subsecant are a (P < 0.01) and relative integral of the regression curve (P < 0.01). The results indicate that an anulus fibrosus with reduced extension p roperties, reduced capacity of energy absorption and retarded shape re covery disposes to rupture.