The human spine contains 33 vertebrae that protect the spinal cord and support the entire skeletal framework of the body. These vertebrae are cushioned by a total of 23 vertebral discs in the spinal column, which act as shock absorbers, hold the vertebrae together and allow for slight mobility in the spine. But what happens when there is a problem with one of these discs?
Bulging vs. Herniated Disc
According to Mayo Clinic, a bulging disc occurs when vertebral discs dehydrate and their cartilage stiffens, which can cause the outer layer of the disc to bulge out around its circumference. A bulging disc involves only the outer layer of tough cartilage.
A herniated disc, however, occurs when a crack in the tough outer layer of cartilage allows some of the inner cartilage to protrude out. It is more likely to cause pain than a bulging disc because a herniated disc is more likely to irritate nerve roots.
Causes
A herniated disc is often a result of disc degeneration, which occurs as a result of aging. As you age, your vertebral discs become less flexible and are more prone to tearing or rupturing. A single excessive strain or injury can result in a herniated disc.
Symptoms
It is possible for a bulging or herniated disc to not cause any pain at all, but if you do suspect a problem, check for these symptoms:
- Arm or leg pain – a herniated disc in the lower back will usually cause the most pain the buttocks, thigh and calf; one in the neck can cause pain in the shoulder and arm.
- Numbness or tingling – pressure on one or several nerves can cause pain, burning, tingling and/or numbness that radiates from the buttock into the leg and sometimes the foot.
- Lower back pain – herniated discs are most common in the lower part of the backbone, in the spot just above the hips. This causes pain in the back.
- Weakness – muscles that depend on the affected nerves to function tend to weaken, which can cause problems with walking and/or lifting items.
Treatments
Most of the time, problems from a herniated disc will start to improve on their own within a few weeks. However, there are a few things you can do to try to feel better.
- Rest – resting can relieve swelling and give your back time to heal, but don’t stay off your feet for longer than a day or two or your joints and muscles could stiffen up.
- Ice/Heat – applying an ice pack or heating pad to the sore part of your back may help.
- Physical therapy – a physical therapist can teach you exercises that can improve the symptoms of a herniated disc, such as stretches, aerobic exercises and massages.
Why physical therapy?
The goal of physical therapy is to ease pain and discomfort while also increasing function and decreasing the chance of a future accident. It may also help you avoid needing surgery to resolve the herniated disc.
There are two common types of physical therapy: active and passive. Active physical therapy focuses on the movement of the muscle, like back stretches or strength exercises. Passive physical therapy includes ultrasounds, electrical stimulation and heat or ice packs.
Schedule an appointment today
If you suspect you have a bulging or herniated disc or just have general back pain, reach out to South Orange Rehabilitation & Wellness. Our team takes the time to get to know each of our patients and figure out what’s causing them the most problems. Reach out and schedule an appointment with us today. We can’t wait to meet you!
