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Spine Conditions A-Z

More Bulging Disc Information

Bulging Disc


What are the risk factors of a bulging disc?

A bulging disc is often caused by the normal aging process. Constant stress from movement in the neck and lower back like twisting, turning, and bending will also increase your chance of developing a bulging disc.

When should I seek medical attention?

If your chronic pain is affecting your quality of life, it's time to consult with an experienced physician. And you are welcome to speak with one of our specialists at Atlantic Spine Center. After having taken care of thousands of patients like you, we can guide you to the proper solution to end your pain.

What will happen if I choose NOT to have surgery?

Most patients will not need surgery. But for patients who are experiencing extreme and debilitating symptoms from nerve compression in the spine, not to have surgery means you won’t experience the improved quality of life that a bulging disc operation can provide. Without proper treatment, bulging disc symptoms can stay permanently. If your main symptom is pain, it will depend on your tolerance level whether or not you’ll be able to have an active life without surgical treatment.

Note From Dr. LiuIf you experience muscle weakness, it will probably affect your walking and you may have to either reduce or completely sacrifice some of your favorite activities. Basically, a bulging disc left untreated can affect your lifestyle.

Is there bulging disc exercise that can help with my pain?

Bulging disc exercise is performed to help you improve your symptoms of bulging disc pain. If you suffer from a bulging disc, bulging disc exercise that you can do at home should help to relieve your pain. Click here to view the exercises that might help you.

Can injections help my disc bulge?

Our advanced pain management treatments can offer great pain relief. An epidural injection for a bulging disc is one of many methods we use to relieve pain, along with physical therapy, nerve blocks, oral medications, and surgery. An epidural injection is delivered into the epidural space of the spine to provide temporary or prolonged relief of pain or inflammation. An epidural injection for bulging disc may reduce pain and swelling in and around the spinal nerve roots, as well as around the damaged nerves, which in time may heal.

The injection itself will be precisely administered with a syringe much like one that would be used for a routine vaccination. The different types of medications used in an epidural injection for bulging disc have different effects. For example, corticosteroids act like an anti-inflammatory agents, reducing swelling and nerve irritation to allow the nerve time to heal itself, thereby preventing further discomfort.

Is physical therapy good for a bulging disc?

Physical therapy is an excellent way to manage the painful symptoms that often accompany this condition. In fact, we have found that physical therapy for bulging disc can manage most symptoms effectively without the need for invasive back or neck surgery. Once we have made a diagnosis, we’ll design a program of therapy for bulging disc that is specific to your needs. If continued physical therapy for bulging disc hasn’t worked for you, try our free pain evaluation tool to guide you to knowing the right next step of your bulging disc treatment.

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.