SEE A SPINE DOCTOR FOR BULGING DISC TREATMENT SPECIALIST AT AOSMI IN FREEHOLD OR MONROE TOWNSHIP, NJ

Reviewed by AOSMI’s Fellowship Trained, Orthopedic Spine Surgeon, Dr. Justin Elkrief.

Bulging discs are very common and not necessarily a cause for concern. The spinal discs are soft, flexible cushions that separate the vertebrae and absorb shock. Due to spinal trauma or age-related degeneration, the borders of a disc may be forced outward such that the disc extends beyond its normal boundaries in the spinal column. A bulging disc is not always painful; in fact, many people have the condition and remain completely unaware of it.

When Does a Bulging Disc Require Treatment?

The goal of bulging disc treatment is to manage the associated symptoms; therefore, treatment is usually required only if the bulging disc symptoms create discomfort. In addition to causing localized neck or back pain, an out-of-place disc may encroach on the spinal canal, where it can potentially pinch a spinal nerve root. Depending on the location of the affected nerve, spinal nerve compression can produce a number of uncomfortable symptoms, such as:

• Numbness or tingling sensations that radiate from the spine down an arm or leg
• Leg muscle weakness and spasms
• Difficulty walking
• Loss of bladder or bowel control (a serious complication that warrants emergency medical attention)

Mild to moderate bulging disc symptoms often resolve on their own within several weeks or months. In the meantime, treatment can improve comfort.

How Is a Bulging Disc Treated?

In most cases, bulging disc treatment does not involve surgery. After confirming the diagnosis and identifying the affected disc, a physician may simply suggest a “wait and watch” approach. If necessary, any symptoms can usually be managed with conservative treatments, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), ice applications, therapeutic massage, and physical therapy. To address severe inflammation around a bulging disc, a physician may suggest a corticosteroid injection. While surgical treatment is also an option, it is generally considered only to address severe bulging disc symptoms that do not respond to conservative treatment, such as:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): NSAIDs can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation around the bulging disc, providing relief from discomfort and promoting the body’s natural healing processes.
• Ice applications
  • Ice applications: Applying ice to the affected area can help reduce swelling, numb the pain, and provide temporary relief by soothing the inflamed tissues around the bulging disc.
• Therapeutic massage
  • Therapeutic massage: Skilled therapeutic massage can target tense muscles, improve blood circulation, and promote relaxation, potentially easing muscle spasms and contributing to the relief of bulging disc-related discomfort.
• Physical therapy
  • Physical therapy: A structured physical therapy program can help strengthen the surrounding muscles, improve flexibility, and enhance posture. These benefits collectively support the spine and alleviate stress on the bulging disc, contributing to improved symptoms and functional recovery.

To address severe inflammation around a bulging disc, a physician may suggest a corticosteroid injection. While surgical treatment is also an option, it is generally considered only to address severe bulging disc symptoms that do not respond to conservative treatment.

WHERE TO SEEK BULGING DISC TREATMENT IN FREEHOLD OR MONROE TOWNSHIP, NJ

The board-certified orthopedic spine surgeons at Advanced Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Institute provide highly individualized treatments for bulging disc and other spine conditions, emphasizing conservative therapies and non-surgical treatment options whenever possible. Contact AOSMI to learn more about the bulging disc treatment options we offer in Freehold and Monroe Township, New Jersey.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bulging Discs

What causes a bulging disc?
How long does a bulging disc take to heal?
Can bulging discs be healed naturally?
How do I know if my bulging disc is getting worse?
What is the difference between a bulging disc and a herniated disc?

Frequently Asked Questions About Bulging Discs

What causes a bulging disc?

A bulging disc, also known as a disc protrusion, is typically caused by gradual wear and tear on the spinal discs over time. Factors that contribute to a bulging disc include aging, repetitive motions, poor posture, and improper body mechanics. These factors can lead to the weakening of the outer layer of the disc, allowing the inner material to push against it and cause the disc to bulge outward.

How long does a bulging disc take to heal?

The healing time for a bulging disc can vary widely depending on factors such as the severity of the bulge, the individual’s overall health, and the treatments employed. In many cases, conservative treatments like physical therapy, rest, and pain management can lead to noticeable improvement within a few weeks to a few months. Severe cases or those that do not respond to conservative measures might require longer recovery periods or further interventions.

Can bulging discs be healed naturally?

Yes, many bulging discs can heal naturally or be managed without surgical intervention. Natural healing can be supported through:

1. Rest and Activity Modification: Allowing the disc time to heal while avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms.
2. Physical Therapy: Targeted exercises to improve spinal stability, flexibility, and posture.
3. Pain Management: Over-the-counter or prescription medications to manage pain and inflammation.
4. Hot and Cold Therapy: Alternating heat and cold applications to alleviate discomfort.
5. Lifestyle Changes: Maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding tobacco use, and practicing good ergonomics.

How do I know if my bulging disc is getting worse?
If you suspect your bulging disc is worsening, watch for signs such as:

1. Increasing Pain: Intensification of back or radiating leg pain.
2. Numbness or Weakness: Growing numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness in the affected area.
3. Difficulty with Daily Activities: Trouble performing routine tasks due to pain or weakness.
4. Changes in Bowel or Bladder Function: Disruptions in bowel or bladder control.
5. Pain with Movement: Pain that worsens with certain movements or positions.

What is the difference between a bulging disc and a herniated disc?

The terms “bulging disc” and “herniated disc” are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct characteristics:

1. Bulging Disc: In this condition, the disc’s outer layer extends beyond its normal boundary, but the inner material remains contained. It may cause localized pain or radiating discomfort but is less likely to compress nerves.

2. Herniated Disc: Also called a “slipped” or “ruptured” disc, this occurs when the disc’s inner material (nucleus pulposus) pushes through a tear in the outer layer (annulus fibrosus). This can lead to nerve compression, causing symptoms like pain, numbness, and weakness along the nerve pathway.

Both conditions can result from wear and tear, and the symptoms and treatments may overlap. Proper diagnosis through medical evaluation and imaging is essential for determining the specific condition and guiding appropriate treatment.