A bulging disc can be a painful experience. Discs of cartilage lie between the bones of the spine, or vertebrae. These pliable discs have a strong outer layer of cartilage with a gel-like interior and serve to allow the spine maximum flexible movement. The discs lose water over time, becoming less pliable and more brittle. This can then allow the inner disc material to bulge through a weakened area of the disc and into the spinal column. If this bulge occurs near a nerve root or the spinal cord, it will inflame the location and you may experience severe back or neck pain.
While many people have a bulging disc and exhibit no painful symptoms, it is important know what you can do if you think you have one.
A Few Treatment Options
- Give it time –pain will generally subside over time as the inflamed area heals, anywhere from a few weeks to a few months with proper rest.
- Try over-the-counter medications – A pain medication available at your local drug store can help alleviate the initial symptoms of pain that a bulging disc causes.
- Call a professional – Severe, debilitating pain can be caused by a bulging disc. It may be best to allow your physician to do a physical exam, and/or MRI or CT scan to confirm the problem and suggest further treatment options such as physical therapy or injections.
Make an Informed Decision
In some cases, you may not find relief by waiting for the pain to subside, nor through other conservative forms of treatment. Another alternative is to contact one of our orthopedic specialists at Laser Spine Institute. Our safe and effective outpatient procedures using the most advanced endoscopic techniques have helped tens of thousands of pain sufferers rediscover their lives without back and neck pain.
