What could cause a annular tear in lumbar spine l5?

Annular tear: The disk is made of two types of cartilage: a softer inner nucleus pulposis and a fibrous stiffer annulus fibrosis. As we age, the connective tissue of the body dries out and becomes stiffer, producing wrinkles and bulges in our skin- parts of our body sag and bulge as we age, including disks. Annular fissures or tears are asymptomatic cracks in disks, a weak spot where a disk might herniate.

Annular tear: The annulus is a thicker wall around the softer part of the lumbar disc. L5 is a common site of wear on the annulus. Occasionally a preexisting pars defect, or fracture in the vertebra can contribute to this. Many times, heavy lifting, twisting and bending can contribute to this. Strengthening one's core is a good way to try to prevent worsening of the tear or disc herniation.