The terms bulging disc, pinched nerve, herniated disc and ruptured disc are used interchangeably and this causes much confusion. All of these terms refer to problems with a disc and accompanying pain. The disc is the cushion between vertebrae and when some of the substance on the inside leaks out through the exterior layer, the disc becomes herniated. This can cause a pinched nerve and lead to pain and numbness.
Symptoms and DiagnosisPain often accompanies a bulging disc and the location of the pinched nerve will determine its location. A pinched nerve caused by a bulging disc in the lower part of the spine will cause leg pain referred to as sciatica. Pain in the arm or shoulder is caused by a disc problem in the neck. Other symptoms include numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness.
The first step in diagnosing a bulging disc is a physical exam where the doctor will test nerve function and muscle strength. Other diagnostic tests include X-rays, MRI, CT scan, myelogram, and nerve tests.
Treatments for a Bulging Disc90 percent of people with a bulging disc find relief with exercise and pain medication along with avoiding certain positions. If the pain is severe and does not respond to OTC medication, your doctor may prescribe stronger drugs for overall pain or nerve pain. If you have muscle spasms, muscle relaxers may help and cortisone injections have help reduce inflammation.
A physical therapist can help by showing you certain exercise to do that will alleviate pain. Over time, you will be able to advance to exercises that will help strengthen and stabilize your back to help avoid problems in the future. Other treatments include temporary braces, traction, applying heat or ice, and electrical stimulation.
In a small percentage of cases, surgery will be required. Usually the part of the disc that is protruding is removed but sometimes the entire disc has to be removed. If that is the case, then the two adjoining vertebrae will be fused together for stability or an artificial disc will be implanted.
A bulging disc occurs when there is a tear in your vertebral discs, causing the inner soft portion to stick out, or bulge. You can get a bulged disc from injury to your spine - for example, like a car accident. If you have a bulging disc, you should get checked out by a professional. I had a friend who suffered intense back pain because of her bulged disc and resorted to natural healing methods which have helped her a lot. See related link.
A more commonly used term for a bulging disc is a herniated disc. This ailment may also be referred to as a slipped disc, ruptured disc, or protruding disc.
Minimal disc bulging means that you are at the beginning stages of a bulging disc. This can cause pain, numbness, and tingling in the neck and back.
Walking is great because it gets your entire body moving, providing lubrication to the joints, and increasing circulation. Physical therapy is also recommended.
If you can prove the bulging disc happened at work or is work related. Prior conditions and diagnoses will come into play.
Bulging disc vs herniated disc
Yes it can
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back and neck
A herniated disc is also referred to as a slipped, rupture, bulging, or protruding disc.
A bulging disc in the neck typically cannot travel or migrate to the lower back. However, the same factors that contribute to disc issues in the neck (such as aging, injury, and poor posture) can also affect the discs in the lower back separately. It is important to address any disc issues in both the neck and lower back to prevent further complications.
The bulging of a disc is caused when the disc grows and comes to a point were it will touch the nerves of the spinal cord. The most common cause is age.