Patient Information Library

Bulging Disc

A bulging disc is a condition related to the spine, usually the lumbar, or lower back, that occurs when a disk bulges through a crevice in the spine. Discs are the soft, gelatinous material that cushions the vertebrae of the spine. A bulging disc occurs when the disk shifts out of its normal radius and most often occurs simply as a result of age.

A bulging disc is different from a herniated disc in that a bulging disc typically occurs gradually over time rather than suddenly. A herniated disc is often the result of an injury or trauma to the spine. In the majority of patients who experience a bulging disc, there is no pain unless the disc becomes herniated or protrudes into a nerve.

In many cases, a bulging disc may be diagnosed as a condition secondary to another problem. Because a bulging disc does not always cause pain, it may only be found during a routine or diagnostic imaging test such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Typically, a bulging disc is not a problem unless it begins to cause pain, becomes herniated or ruptures.

Treatment for a bulging disc or even a herniated disc is relatively conservative in most cases. Rest and lifting restrictions are common, and Dr. Francis may recommend a combination of heat and ice therapy and anti-inflammatory medications or cortisone injections. Medication may be prescribed to deal with any associated pain.

Though usually a condition affecting the lower back, occasionally, a bulging disc may occur in the neck area. Usually, pain that radiates to the shoulders and arms indicates that a nerve in the neck may be pinched or pushed upon. In the lower back, pain may sometimes radiate to the legs.

A physical examination by your Dr. Francis will help determine where your discomfort may be coming from and whether the problem arose gradually or suddenly. In most cases, conservative treatment relieves the problem. Back surgery, though not as common, can relieve severe pain caused by compression on the nerves from a bulging disc that becomes herniated.