Science today isn't the same as the science 2000 years ago was but some principles remain the same. The human knowledge constantly grows but with more knowledge there comes even more mysteries and unsolved questions, so science is always going forward.
Causes. The most common cause of a cervical herniated nucleus pulposus is gradual degeneration of the disc, attenuation (weakening) of the posterior annulus fibrosis, and subsequent protrusion of the nucleus pulposus into the spinal canal causing compression of the nerve root.
Causes of cervical herniated discs. A herniated disc is caused by severe compression in the spine, usually due to general wear and tear or injury. Usually, a herniated disc will either occur in the cervical spine (neck) or lumbar spine (lower back) due to the natural degeneration of the spine over time. The cervical spine is responsible for supporting and stabilizing the head and neck, as well as allowing movement at the pivot point between the head and neck.