Herniated Disc vs. a Bulging Disc: How They Differ

The human spine comprises 23 flat, round, rubbery discs that sit between each vertebra, providing support, flexibility, and shock absorption.

These discs are remarkably strong. However, natural aging, wear and tear, and physical strain can cause them to herniate or bulge. Both are common causes of back pain.

At Advanced Pain & Spine Management, with offices in Bloomingdale and Arlington Heights, IL, our highly experienced medical team specializes in diagnosing and treating spinal issues, including herniated and bulging discs.

Though these disorders cause similar issues, they’re not the same injury. Here’s what our experts want you to know about how they differ. 

The difference between herniated and bulging discs

The construction of a spinal disc compares with that of a jelly donut. The “jelly” of the disc — the nucleus —  presses out against the annulus or the “donut” in this analogy. When the nucleus presses against a weak spot in the annulus, a bulge can form, pushing beyond the normal boundaries of that disc. 

You could have a bulging disc without developing symptoms because the bulge might not press against nerve tissue. The weak spot in the annulus can heal and return to its original shape. 

If the nucleus breaks through the annulus, the disc becomes herniated. As a result, the annulus no longer contains the nucleus. This condition may also exist and heal without ever causing symptoms. 

However, a herniated disc is more likely to change shape in a way that can compress or irritate nerve tissue. While a bulging disc has similar potential, nerve compression is less likely when the annulus remains intact. 

Symptoms of nerve compression due to a disc disorder include:

• Pain in the lumbar spinal region of the lower back
• Sensations from the back, through the buttocks, and down the leg, usually one side at a time (sciatica)
• Sensations including pain, dull aches, numbness, tingling, or weakness
• Sharp pain episodes accompany a cough, sneeze, or particular movement 

A disc bulge or herniation can occur anywhere in the spine, but most happen in the lower back. The cervical spine, the neck, is the next most common location for symptomatic disc problems. 

Treating symptomatic disc issues

Most disc bulges and herniations heal in up to 90% of cases. At Advanced Pain & Spine Management, we guide you through conservative care to keep you comfortable while encouraging natural healing. 

First-line treatments include:

• Rest
• Losing Weight:
• Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen
• Physical Therapy

If these are ineffective, we may recommend epidural steroid injections. Only in rare instances is surgery necessary.

If you’re suffering from back pain, get to the root of the issue. Contact Advanced Pain & Spine Management to book an evaluation today.