the doctor say i have a minimal annular bulge at c-3-4 what does this mean?
no
small central disc protrusion at c3-4
A bulging disk on the left side.
There is compression of the disc between the cervical vertebrae 4 and 5, which is leading to bulging out of the disc from all sides.
Asymmetrical annular disk bulging refers to a condition where the intervertebral disc bulges outward unevenly, with more pronounced bulging on the left side. This bulging can compress surrounding structures, such as the epidural fat and nerve roots, particularly affecting the left nerve root in this case. Such changes may lead to symptoms like pain, numbness, or weakness in the areas served by the affected nerve. This condition is often associated with degenerative disc disease or injury and may require further evaluation and management.
Annular means 'happening once a year'
Posterior annular bulging at C3-C4 refers to the outward protrusion of the annulus fibrosus, the tough outer layer of an intervertebral disc, at the cervical spine level between the third and fourth cervical vertebrae. This bulging can occur due to degeneration, injury, or age-related changes, potentially leading to nerve root compression or spinal canal narrowing. Symptoms may include neck pain, stiffness, or neurological issues depending on the severity and impact on surrounding structures. Treatment options can vary from conservative management, such as physical therapy, to surgical intervention in more severe cases.
convex, bulging, with a hump.
the doctor say i have a minimal annular bulge at c-3-4 what does this mean?
it has gone bad - throw it away.
It means you have a slight herniation/slight bulging of the disc at the L5-S1 level of your spine.
There's a slit in the back of the ring that holds the vertebral disk.