The intervertebral disc, the cartilage structure between the upper and lower vertebrae, plays an important role in the movement of the spine. There are many factors affecting IVD function, including aging, traumatic injury, genetics and other factors. Previous study showed that inflammatory of intervertebral disc disease leads to excessive breakdown of extracellular matrix, apoptosis and impaired biomechanics. However, the current treatment of disc-related diseases is very limited, and its treatment is also limited, mainly in relieving symptoms rather than reducing the progression of the disease. At the same time, disc disease is a chronic progressive disease and a very “expensive” disease. Intervertebral disc herniation has affected up to 2.2% of the adult population, causing a lot of physical burden and huge medical care costs, as well as the loss of working ability. However, there is increasing evidence that immune and inflammatory responses in the peripheral and central nervous systems play a pivotal role in the progression of intervertebral disc disease. Currently, interleukin, TNF-α, Toll-like receptor, IAPP and TGF-β1 have been shown to be closely related to root pain in lumbar disc herniation in the course of disc disease. This article reviewed these latest developments and mechanisms as well as the future direction of treatment.