Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have identified an immune cell found in people with autoimmune disorders that appears to play a role in back pain associated with herniated discs. The scientists say the immune cells cytokine molecule interleukin-17 (IL-17) appears to help trigger the painful inflammation associated with disc disease. The investigators also say their finding adds to the growing body of evidence that an immune response is a major contributor to spinal disc disease.

Source: http://www.healthcentral.com/chronic-pain/news-529504-98.html