Do I Have a Bulging Disc?

• What is a bulging disc?

  When the tough exterior portion of a spinal disc extends beyond its normal position between two vertebrae, it results in a condition referred to as a bulging disc. Although there are small differences between the conditions, a bulging disc is often referred to as a herniated disc and slipped disc. For many people, a bulging disc is accompanied by painful—and sometimes debilitating—symptoms.

• What Causes a Bulging Disc?

  The most commonly cited cause for bulging discs are aging and normal wear-and-tear, however, other factors can also play a role, such as:

  • Inactive or sedentary lifestyle
  • Poor posture
  • Trauma or injury
  • Obesity

• What are common bulging disc symptoms?

  The most common symptoms of bulging discs include numbness, tingling, and pain at the location of the affected disc. For example, a bulging disc in the neck (cervical spine) can cause symptoms to appear in the arms, shoulders, and hands. For a bulging disc in the lower back (lumbar spine) the symptoms would manifest in the legs and feet indicates. And if the symptoms appear in the chest and abdomen areas, this may be a sign of a bulging disc in the middle back area (thoracic spine).

  If you think you are experiencing the symptoms of a bulging disc, use our pain assessment tool to start your diagnosis.

How Are Bulging Discs Treated?

• Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Bulging Discs

  In most cases, the first step in treating a bulging disc begins with conservative, non-surgical treatment options. These types of treatments help determine whether or not the disc is able to repair itself and return to the proper shape, which results in the elimination of pressure on nearby nerves and relief from painful symptoms. Non-surgical treatments include:

  • Activity modification and rest
  • Medication (over-the-counter or prescribed)
  • Cortisone injections
  • Hot or cold therapy
  • Stretching exercises
  • Physical therapy

• Robotic Surgical Treatments for Bulging Discs

  If conservative treatment does not remedy the bulging disc, or if the condition of the bulge was deemed beyond the help of non-surgical options and surgery is required, robotic-assisted techniques offer the most minimally invasive options for surgery candidates. Robotic-assisted treatment options for bulging discs include:

  • Artificial Disc Replacement
  • Discectomy
  • Robotic Spine Surgery
  • Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

  As with any spinal condition, it’s important to seek medical advice and treatment before the condition becomes too serious. Whether non-surgical or surgical treatment, the path to a pain-free life waiting is for you. Find the right treatment for you with our treatment finder assessment.