Which of the following statements about herniated discs is false?

Herniated discs are a medical condition in which the inner gel-like core of a spinal disc protrudes through the outer layer, often causing pain and affecting mobility. The statement that they are always caused by gradual wear and tear is indeed false because herniated discs can also occur as a result of sudden trauma or injury, such as lifting heavy objects incorrectly or experiencing a fall. This indicates that while degeneration over time can contribute to the condition, it is not the sole cause, and acute incidents can trigger a herniation as well.

The other statements are factual. Herniated discs can certainly affect mobility by causing pain or nerve compression, while treatment options range from conservative approaches like physical therapy to more invasive procedures depending on how severe the herniation is and the symptoms presented. It is vital to understand the multifactorial nature of herniated discs to effectively address and treat the condition.