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The human body is magnificent where everything works in tandem with everything else. Spine, the cord that runs from the base of your skull to the pelvis, is among the most important things in the body without which you won’t be able to move at all.
The most common reason for a sudden, sharp pain in your back, could be muscle tension or stress, but there are chances you might be experiencing something more serious. Bulging disc is an age-related condition that develops gradually. It has a degenerative nature, which means it affects the functioning of the body and can worsen overtime.
You can term it as disc herniation although bulging discs are slightly different, which we will explore further in this blog. Doctors usually prescribe imaging tests along with medication and based on the response, they may ask for other tests and alternative treatments such as surgery, in severe cases. The problem is, bulging discs doesn’t always require surgery. It can be treated with non-invasive methods which expedite the recovery process and eliminate the need for surgery.
Before we can jump into the causes of disc bulging or disc protrusion and how to treat them, it’s crucial to understand what exactly is a bulging disc.
Your spine is made up of 33 vertebrae or interlocking bones with cushion-like discs in-between. These discs are made up of a thick outer portion and a jelly-like inner portion. The function of these discs is to allow mobility to the vertebrae and provide support when you are walking, standing, resting, sleeping, etc. It aids in motions like bending and prevents two vertebrae from rubbing each other. It also acts as a shock absorber providing ultimate protection to these delicate yet imperative interlocking pieces of the spine.
To make it simpler, we have defined three major types of disc problems and how they are different. First, if the disc’s outer wall is intact and the protrusion is more than 180° of its circumference, it’s called a ‘bulging disc’. Second, if the protrusion is less than 180°, it’s called ‘disc protrusion’. Lastly, if the outer portion is ruptured and the inner fluid escapes, it’s called a ‘herniated disc’.
Various factors like age, injury, accident or excessive bending beyond a limit, can also cause the disc to get compressed unevenly, thereby pushing a section of the disc to bulge inwards. Unlike herniated discs, a bulged disc inflates like a balloon thereby compressing the nerve passing through the spinal canal. It is what triggers sharp or burning pain, tingling, or numbness sensation in the areas affected.
There are a number of reasons why you might be suffering from a bulging disc. The discs undergo constant wear and tear. As it is mostly age-related, the disc begins degenerating around the fourth and fifth lumbar vertebrae. Other causes may include inactivity, smoking, poor posture, strain, injury, and obesity to name a few.
Going for surgery should be the last resort. It is because there are non-invasive disc bulge treatments available that have proven their mantle.
You can take certain medications to get relief from the excruciating pain. Painkillers can help subside pain and inflammation. While muscle relaxer medications, in case of muscle spasms can also help with long-term relief.
Stretching such as Knee-to-Chest, Cat-Cow Stretch, and Forearm Plank among others can minimise back pain borne out of herniated discs. It can put you in a better position as stretching can remove excess pressure on the nerve, provided it is performed under the supervision of healthcare professionals. It is one of the recommended non-invasive methods of treating disc bulges without surgery.
Sometimes, all you need is a good massage as it relaxes the body, relieves pressure put forth by pinched nerves, and helps deal with pain better than before. It is known to curb situations such as anxiety, stress, high blood pressure, and muscle tension among others that are all related to back pain in one way or another.
In case of inflammation or pain in the affected region, heat or cold therapy can help with the relief. Experts recommend using cold packs initially followed by heat packs that essentially reduce the muscle tension and soothes the affected region.
If you are experiencing bulging disc pain or anything related to the spine, we at QI Spine Clinic can help. We have treated various types of back problems over the years including treating disc bulges without surgery. You can reach out to us at 086558 85566 to book an appointment to regain your life & mobility and the freedom to embark on any journey without the fear of back pain.
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