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Spine Conditions A-Z

More Bulging Disc Information

Bulging Disc


What is The Cause of a Bulging Disc?

The main cause of a bulging disc is aging. As we age, the daily wear and tear of our spine begins to weaken our spinal structures, and is a common cause of a bulging disc. This natural degenerative process weakens the disc, making it harder and harder to handle the pressure placed on it when doing our normal daily activities. This usually results in a bulging disc, which may press on the nerves near it, causing you pain.

While bulging disc causes are often the result of degenerative changes as we age, there may be other contributing factors behind this condition. A number of different causes of bulging disc can lead to back and neck pain. Things as simple as twisting your neck oddly or bending quickly can be causes of a bulging disc. Even a strong sneeze could place enough pressure on the disc, contributing to the cause of a bulging disc. Severe trauma, improper lifting, a genetic predisposition, participating in sports, and smoking can all be causes of a bulging disc.

Note From Dr. LiuBefore the appropriate treatment can be prescribed, your doctor must narrow down your causes of your bulging disc

Keep in mind, a bulging disc becomes more common with repetitive use. So working in an occupation that requires a lot of lifting, bending, standing, or driving can also be a cause of a bulging disc. It is important to practice proper body mechanics if you perform these tasks repetitively with your occupation.

Body Mechanics; Avoid Bulging Disc Causes

If you work in an office try to follow these few tips:

  • Make sure your feet are resting comfortably on the floor, either by using an adjustable work surface, chair, or a foot stool.
  • If you need to work at your desk for longer than 30 minutes to an hour, get up and walk around to stretch out your legs.
  • Always have a good chair with good back support and make sure you sit up straight and do not slouch.
  • If you are using a computer make sure that the monitor is at eye level and you are not either looking down or up at it.

Note From Dr. Liu If you are required to stand for extended periods of time, incorporate a small foot stool into your workstation. Rotate throughout the day which foot you have rested on your stool.

If you do a lot of driving, try some of the following tips to keep your back healthy:

  • Take breaks when you are over tired
  • Make sure when you do rest it is adequate
  • Try and eat healthier, include fresh fruit, vegetables, meats, grains, seeds and nuts into your diet and try to avoid foods that are sugary, high in fats or processed
  • Try to get some form of exercise even if it is just a 30 minute walk

Are you a Candidate for Surgery?

If non surgical bulging disc treatment fails to reduce your pain and other symptoms, you may be a surgical candidate. Our simple 3 step candidacy checking tool can get you started on a path to recovery in just minutes.

Begin 3 Step Diagnosis Process

Need assistance, or for answers to any questions you have please contact us now or call (877) 272-4535.