How to Treat a Bulging Disc in Back

Have you been diagnosed with a bulging disc in the lumbar region? What does it mean to have a protruding disc in the lower back? Well, to understand what a bulging disc is, you must have a basic idea about the structure of the spinal cord. The spinal cord consists of bones, which are separated by inter-vertebral discs. These are cartilage pads that are strong yet flexible. These heavy cartilage pads enclose a jelly-like substance. These discs facilitate bending and twisting movements of the spine, cushion the bones of the spine and also facilitate shock absorption. As we age, these discs might degenerate owing to stress. As a result, the outer walls of any of these discs might weaken and cause the jelly-like material enclosed by the walls to bulge outwards. Medically referred to as contained spinal disorder, bulging discs can occur in any part of the spine, but are commonly seen to affect the neck or the lower back. The need for bulging disc treatment is often felt, when the protruded disc starts pressing against the nerves of the spinal column. Here's some information on how to treat a bulging disc in back.

What Causes a Bulging Disc in the Back

Though the degeneration of disc is often a result of aging, bulging disc in the back could also occur due to an injury. The disc can move out of its primary radius due to a fall from a height. Injury to the lumbar spine due to an accident or repeated trauma could also cause this spinal condition. Since, lifting heavy weights can cause strain on the vertebrae, weightlifters are quite susceptible to this condition. It is believed that excessive consumption of alcohol or excessive smoking can also increase the risk of degeneration of the discs.

A bulging disc in back might even develop into a herniated disc. This is a condition wherein the annulus, that is the tough outer cover of the disc, might weaken and rupture, thereby, causing the nucleus pulposus, which is the jelly-like material to leak out. The symptoms experienced by the sufferer will depend on the location of the bulging disc. At times, one might not experience any symptoms, however, pain will be experienced if the bulge causes irritation of spinal nerves. If such a disc causes a pinched nerve in the lumbar spine, one is likely to experience lower back pain, weakness in the legs, numbness or a tingling sensation.

Ways of Treating a Bulging Disc in the Back

The treatment options for a bulging disc in the lumbar region will vary depending on the severity of the symptoms experienced by the patient. Here's some information on the treatment of this condition.

Take Rest: First of all, one must refrain from indulging in any activity that might put pressure on the lower back region. Lifting heavy objects or performing any strenuous physical activity that puts pressure on the inter-vertebral discs in the lower back will further aggravate the condition. This can even lead to herniated lumbar disc, a more serious spinal condition.

Medication: If the bulging disc impinges on the spinal nerves, one is most likely to suffer from lower back pain. Generally painkillers are prescribed for alleviating back pain. If the oral painkillers are not providing pain relief, the use of anti-inflammatory steroid injections might be recommended. Intravenous administration of steroid injections might be recommended for reducing the inflammation or treating the irritated or pinched nerves. Application of ice packs or heat pads might also help in reducing the inflammation.

Physical Therapy: While resting the spine is an important part of the treatment for a bulging disc, rest needs to be followed by slow and gradual mobilization. Physical therapy often forms an important part of bulging disc treatment. Performing stretches and specific exercises will surely help in strengthening the back. One can also consult a massage therapist or a chiropractor for correcting the misalignment of the spine.

Surgery: If the aforementioned treatment options don't seem to help, one might be recommended to undergo a bulging disc surgery. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia. It involves the removal of the disc material that is impinging on the nerve roots. The type of surgery will depend on the health and age of the patient. Laminotomy, laminectomy, percutaneous discectomy or disc-dissolving procedures might be employed to treat this condition.

Now that you know how a bulging disc can sometimes affect your mobility, make sure that you take all possible steps to prevent this condition. If you are experiencing severe back pain due to a bulging disc, seek medical help and follow the advice of your doctor.