Bulging Discs- Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Female doctor looking at two different x-rays of the spine of female patient, isolated, copy space

Compression of the sponge-like bones in the spine may lead to bulging of the disc, it is both a cause and a symptom of physical pain and mobility problems.

It is likely that degenerative discs are bulging due to ageing, while symptoms tend to progress slowly.Short- and long-term treatments are sometimes recommended for the patient with a bulging discs to decompress the spinal cord and alleviate pain. Causes and symptoms of a bulging disc are being discussed in this article. There is also a consideration of alternative treatment for bulging disc in lower back and exercises that could provide pain relief.

What Bulging Discs Are?

A herniated discs occur when the soft tissue discs between the bones becomes tense. A tissue is composed of interlocking bones, called vertebrae. Backbone support helps the back's flexibility. Tissue interposed between each vertebrae is known as a disc. The discs also help reduce the effects of shock to the components by absorbing some of the energy that would have otherwise be absorbed by the mechanical parts.

There is a tough, plastic layer around the outside, but an elastomeric rubber center. As this gelling liquid ages, it may reduce in volume, become compressed, and be pushed out. The disc may touch a nerve and result in pain if it gets larger.

Most lumbar disc herniation occurs at the lower end of the spinal column. Sometimes, the outer disc layer ruptures, causing an ingrown disc. When the center of the disc herniates, it is called a herniated or ruptured disc.

Is this supposed to be serious?

Bulging discs can lead to herniated discs, which can be painful, restrict movement, and cause more suffering. Excess disc pressure in the legs and weakness or numbness from a damaged bladder are two consequences of enlarged discs.

Common Signs and Symptoms

A herniated disc disease will present with different symptoms depending on where it is in the spine. It is possible that those with little or no clinical depression in the early stages of depression will show no initial symptoms. Herniation and disc degeneration leads to the following additional symptoms:

  • Back pain that gets worse with motion, like shoulder joint pain

  • Spasms in the lower back muscles

  • Decreased leg and ankle flexibility

  • Decreased bladder and control of bowel

  • Problem in walking or standing

  • Sciatica

  • No coordinating power

Treatment Process

The treatment will vary depending on the location and severity of the bulge. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen may be prescribed to aid in pain management and lower inflammation. For people with excruciatingly bad pain, cortisone injections may be appropriate. Best rest may be required. In some cases, when the pain is particularly bad, the doctor may opt to perform surgery to relieve the symptoms while the patient is still mobile.

Contact Oklahoma Pain Treatment Center to get the best treatment for bulging disc in lower back. Our doctors will provide you with flawless treatment and make sure you lead a normal life again.

**Disclaimer: This blog post does not establish terms of a doctor-patient relationship and is not intended to be taken as a doctor's advice.

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