Final answer:
A herniated disc is a painful rupture of fibrocartilage between spinal vertebrae that may cause compression on the spinal cord, resulting in pain and possible paralysis.
Step-by-step explanation:
A painful rupture of fibrocartilage of discs between spinal vertebrae that may cause compression on the spinal cord leading to pain and possible paralysis is called a herniated disc. When the posterior anulus fibrosus is weakened, it can cause the nucleus pulposus to protrude posteriorly through the anulus fibrosus, resulting in a herniated disc. This can lead to the compression of a spinal nerve, causing pain and muscle weakness.