Bulging vs Herniated Disc: Know the Difference

Approximately 8% of adults experience continuous or chronic back pain. Unfortunately, this discomfort may prevent individuals from doing activities they enjoy or keeping a job. As a result, individuals with back pain may lead more sedentary lifestyles, increasing their risk for obesity, depression, and other health issues.

Some of the most common back issues are bulging and herniated discs. This post will explain the causes, symptoms, and treatment of both. It’ll also help you understand your bulging vs herniated disc diagnosis.

What Is a Bulging Disc?

Bulging disks cause the nucleus to pressure a nerve cluster, leading to pain. Usually, they’re the result of active trauma, perhaps due to:

• Injury
• Repetitive movements
• Poor posture
• Improper form when exercising

Thus, active individuals or those with physically demanding jobs are at the highest risk. Depending on the cause, a person can sometimes have several bulging discs at once.

Bulging Disc Symptoms

After the initial damage, bulging discs develop slowly. So not all the symptoms will be present at once. However, if you have a bulging disc, you may experience the following:

• Pain or difficulty with walking
• Leg pain
• Neck pain
• Numbness in the buttocks and lower back

Your symptoms will also depend on the location of the bulging disc and whether you have one or several.

Bulging Disc Treatment

Bulging disc treatment is relatively simple and usually addresses short-term pain. Usually, patients should be careful about movements or stay on bed rest for a couple of weeks.

If the pain continues, doctors may choose to prescribe medicines, such as muscle relaxers or opioids.

What Is a Herniated Disc?

Unlike bulging discs, the core of a herniated disc can rupture. This factor makes them much more severe.

Herniated discs have several causes, but they’re most prevalent among aging individuals and occur as the body deteriorates. However, it’s possible to develop a herniated disc due to trauma, such as accidents or injuries.

Herniated Disc Symptoms

If you have a herniated disc, you’ll experience a lot of pain or discomfort, particularly in the disc area. This pain will likely worsen with movement, making exercise a challenge. You may also notice numbness or weakness in the shoulders.

Herniated discs cause similar symptoms to bulging discs. If you still aren’t sure whether you have a herniated disc vs bulging disc, visit a back doctor. They can perform the necessary exams to diagnose your pain and develop a proper treatment plan.

Herniated Disc Treatment

The treatment for a herniated disc also emphasizes short-term relief through rest and anti-inflammatory drugs.

If the pain is severe, doctors may recommend surgery as a long-term solution. However, spinal surgeries come with many risks, so it’s best to avoid them as a primary treatment.

Bulging vs Herniated Disc: Seek Proper Treatment No Matter the Diagnosis

After reading this brief post, you now have a better understanding of the differences between a bulging vs herniated disc. Even if you identify your symptoms, your best bet is to seek professional medical treatment. So schedule an appointment with a doctor as soon as possible!

If you want to be healthier, don’t forget to browse more posts in our health and fitness category!