Disc Bulge:
A Disc Bulge occurs when the tough outer fibers of the spinal disc weaken and stretch allowing the “jelly center” of the disc to “bulge” outward. A Disc Bulge is generally considered the first step toward a more serious problem called a Herniated Disc. A Herniated Disc is similar to a Disc Bulge except that the outer layers of the disc actually weaken to the point of tearing.
Herniated Disc:
A Herniated Disc occurs when the tough outer fibers of the spinal disc tear, thus allowing the “jelly center” of the disc to herniate or bulge outward. A Herniated Disc is generally considered to be more serious than a Disc Bulge where the outer wall of the disc is weakened but not torn.
Disc Bulge / Disc Herniation: Symptoms
The majority of symptoms caused by a Disc Bulge or Herniated Disc are related to irritation of spinal nerves. These nerves exit the spine through small holes called foramen. The spinal discs are located next to these nerve passageways, and the bulging of the disc material can “pinch” these nerves, thereby creating a variety of uncomfortable and sometimes debilitating symptoms.
Disc Bulge / Herniated Disc of the Low Back: Lumbar Spine Disc Bulge
A Disc Bulge in the low back can cause low back pain or numbness, tingling, burning, sharp pain or weakness in the legs or feet. Sharp pain in the back of the legs is often referred to as Sciatica.
Disc Bulge / Herniated Disc of the Neck: Cervical Spine Disc Bulge
A Disc Bulge in the neck can cause neck pain, or in more severe cases, numbness, tingling, burning, sharp pain or weakness in the arms or hands.
