The Difference between Herniated and Bulging Discs
- posted: Jul. 15, 2024
If you’ve been diagnosed with a bulging or herniated disc in your spine, you may think the two terms are interchangeable. However, while bulging and herniated discs are related, there are distinct differences between these conditions. If you believe you have a herniated or bulging disc and are looking for a non-invasive way to get relief, we at Schofield Spine + Motion in Cedar Falls, IA, are here to help.
What Is a Bulging Disc?
Discs are soft, cushion-like pads between your vertebrae that absorb impact and allow flexibility. A bulging disc means the outer fibrous layer of the disc has developed a protrusion. However, the inner gel-like nucleus still remains contained within the outer wall. Bulging discs become more common as we age and the early stages might occur without any symptoms.
What Is a Herniated Disc?
A herniated disc goes beyond just a bulge. It means the inner nucleus has ruptured through the outer layer, becoming exposed. This jelly-like material can then leak out from the disc, irritating surrounding nerves. Symptoms of a herniated disc depend on the size and location but may include sharp back pain, muscle weakness, and tingling or numbness through the legs.
What Causes Them?
Factors like aging, injury, poor posture, and repetitive strain can weaken discs over time. Lifting something heavy improperly or a sudden blow to the spine can then cause discs to bulge or herniate. Genetics also play a role.
How Are They Diagnosed?
Both bulging and herniated discs can be diagnosed with the help of a chiropractor. We may give you an examination and also potentially order imaging tests to confirm our diagnosis. Once we have confirmed that these conditions are the cause of your pain, we can develop a personalized treatment plan to hopefully help you get relief.
How Are They Treated?
Bulging discs may only require rest, ice, and corrective exercises. Herniated discs may need extra treatment, however. The good news is treatments such as spinal decompression therapy may help reduce disc pressure for bulging and herniated discs so that you can return to your normal life.
Get Spinal Decompression, Chiropractic Care, and Back Pain Treatment Near You from a Chiropractor Near You
If you are looking for herniated or bulging disc treatment, a chiropractor on our chiropractic team is here to help. We at Schofield Spine + Motion offer customized back pain relief treatment for Cedar Falls, IA, patients. Contact us today for an assessment. Call us at (319) 277-5616 for spinal decompression, chiropractic care, and back pain treatment near you from a chiropractor near you.
- posted: Jul. 15, 2024
If you’ve been diagnosed with a bulging or herniated disc in your spine, you may think the two terms are interchangeable. However, while bulging and herniated discs are related, there are distinct differences between these conditions. If you believe you have a herniated or bulging disc and are looking for a non-invasive way to get relief, we at Schofield Spine + Motion in Cedar Falls, IA, are here to help.
What Is a Bulging Disc?
Discs are soft, cushion-like pads between your vertebrae that absorb impact and allow flexibility. A bulging disc means the outer fibrous layer of the disc has developed a protrusion. However, the inner gel-like nucleus still remains contained within the outer wall. Bulging discs become more common as we age and the early stages might occur without any symptoms.
What Is a Herniated Disc?
A herniated disc goes beyond just a bulge. It means the inner nucleus has ruptured through the outer layer, becoming exposed. This jelly-like material can then leak out from the disc, irritating surrounding nerves. Symptoms of a herniated disc depend on the size and location but may include sharp back pain, muscle weakness, and tingling or numbness through the legs.
What Causes Them?
Factors like aging, injury, poor posture, and repetitive strain can weaken discs over time. Lifting something heavy improperly or a sudden blow to the spine can then cause discs to bulge or herniate. Genetics also play a role.
How Are They Diagnosed?
Both bulging and herniated discs can be diagnosed with the help of a chiropractor. We may give you an examination and also potentially order imaging tests to confirm our diagnosis. Once we have confirmed that these conditions are the cause of your pain, we can develop a personalized treatment plan to hopefully help you get relief.
How Are They Treated?
Bulging discs may only require rest, ice, and corrective exercises. Herniated discs may need extra treatment, however. The good news is treatments such as spinal decompression therapy may help reduce disc pressure for bulging and herniated discs so that you can return to your normal life.
Get Spinal Decompression, Chiropractic Care, and Back Pain Treatment Near You from a Chiropractor Near You
If you are looking for herniated or bulging disc treatment, a chiropractor on our chiropractic team is here to help. We at Schofield Spine + Motion offer customized back pain relief treatment for Cedar Falls, IA, patients. Contact us today for an assessment. Call us at (319) 277-5616 for spinal decompression, chiropractic care, and back pain treatment near you from a chiropractor near you.
1001 Hudson Rd., Ste. A
Cedar Falls, IA, 50613