Bulging Disc vs. Herniated Disc: Understanding the Difference in Your Spine
What’s the difference between bulging and herniated discs?
How do these conditions affect your spine?
Like any complex system, your spine is prone to wear and tear. Two common conditions that can affect the discs in your spine are disc bulges and disc herniations. These terms may sound similar, but they are very different conditions.
The Discs: Our Spinal Cushions
Between each vertebra sits a disc. These discs act as shock absorbers, providing cushioning and flexibility to the spine. Each disc has a tough outer shell and a soft, jelly-like center.
Bulging Disc: When the Tire Loses Air
Imagine a car tire. A bulging disc is like a tire that’s lost some air. The disc retains its shape, but the outer layer weakens and bulges outward. This bulging can press on nearby nerves, causing pain. Bulging discs often go unnoticed, especially if they don’t affect your nerves.
Herniated Disc: When the Filling Spills Out
A herniated disc is more severe than a bulge. Here, the outer layer tears or ruptures, allowing the soft center to protrude outward. This leakage can put significant pressure on spinal nerves, which can lead to pain, numbness, and weakness that radiates along the path of the affected nerve.
Understanding the Symptoms
Both bulging and herniated discs can cause pain, but the severity and location can differ. Bulging discs might cause a dull ache, while herniated discs can produce sharp, radiating pain. Herniated discs are also more likely to cause weakness, numbness, and tingling in the arms or legs, depending on the location of the herniation.
The Takeaway
While bulging and herniated discs affect the spine, they represent different stages of disc degeneration. Bulging discs are generally less serious, and symptoms may not even be present. Herniated discs, on the other hand, can cause significant pain and nerve issues. If you experience back pain that radiates down your leg or arm, consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Get Help for Bulging Discs in Ann Arbor
Chiropractic care can go a long way towards helping you recover from spinal issues. Pivotal Chiropractic can help provide treatment for disc herniations and bulging discs in Ann Arbor. To reach out with questions or schedule an appointment, call (734) 221-0362 or submit a contact form here.