What is a Bulging Disc?
The spine is made up by the spinal discs located between these segments. The spinal discs protect the spine and allow for greater flexibility. Every disc has a jelly-like outer layer and a stronger inner layer.
As the spine ages, discs can become hydrated and stiffen. A common outcome of disc dehydration is that they can become flattened. The outer fibrous disc can “bulge in” to the spinal canal. It is like eating a large hamburger. This is not cause for concern and is a normal part of aging. However, bulging discs can cause nerve pressure within the spinal canal. These aren’t common conditions and don’t often cause symptoms. The treatment of a bulging disc is usually not necessary if stenosis has not been diagnosed.
What is a Herniated Disc?
A herniated Disc occurs when a substantial portion of the outer disc layer is exposed. The medical professionals will often refer to the first situation as “non contained”, extruded, or “free piece”. The second situation is called “contained piece.”
A jelly doughnut is a good example of how you can tell the difference between herniated discs and bulging ones. A slightly flattened bulging sphere is similar to an intact jelly doughnut. It is possible for the jelly to leak out of the donut and it could rupture. This is how it becomes a bulging disc.
Bulging Disc vs. Herniated Disc
If a disc bursts it can cause injury to or compression of nearby spinal cords. Many patients with disc pathology describe discomfort and pain as the main causes. Patients with disc pathology might experience different symptoms depending if they have a bulging, herniated or normal disc.
Both conditions can cause pain in the legs and back, tingling, numbness, loss of movement, and leg and back discomfort. These conditions are more common than herniated and bulging discs. A bulging disc has a lower risk of nerve irritation than a herniated one.
An MRI will determine if a bulged spine is herniated. However, MRIs can confirm if a bulging spine is herniated. This does not necessarily mean that the disc causes your pain. Many people with herniated or bulging discs on MRI do not experience any discomfort. A physical exam and discussion with your doctor will help determine the exact state of your spine.
Your spine is supported using discs. They have a tough outer layer and soft cartilage at their center. They can be inserted between the vertebrae.
With age, discs can develop wear and show signs. The cartilage can become stiffer over time as the discs dry out. These changes can cause the outer layer of a disc to bulge evenly around its circumference. This creates a disc that looks like a hamburger.
Although the bulging disc doesn’t always affect the discs’ perimeter, the circumference of at least 25%- 50% will be affected. Only the outermost layer is affected by tough cartilage.
A herniated (or ruptured) disc is caused by the cartilage’s tough outer layer being cracked. This allows the inner, more flexible cartilage to protrude from the disc. You may also call them slipped discs and ruptured discs herniated disks. However, the disc is not able to break up or slip. The crack is small.
A bulging, herniated disk is more likely to cause discomfort than a normal bulging disc. Because it protrudes further and is more likely than a bulging disc to cause pain, a herniated or bulging distal disc is more probable. It can be caused by irritation of the nerve root or by painful inflammation.
Imaging tests can indicate a bulging disc or herniated disc. It is possible that your back problem could not be caused by this. Many people with back problems don’t have MRI evidence proving that their discs are damaged.
Final Thoughts
It is not easy to understand the terminology of spinal anatomy. Patients may mistakenly confuse herniated discs and bulging disks, as both can refer to the exact same condition. Because they are often used interchangeably, it can be confusing for patients to identify which one best suits their symptoms. Asking questions and doing research can help keep your spine healthy. This guide is a good starting point for a discussion with your doctor about the best way to care for your spine.