Intervertebral disc bulge

A disc bulge refers to an extension of the whole circumference of a disc beyond the border in which it usually sits. This border is called the apophyseal ring. Technically more the 25% of its circumference needs to bulge out to be termed a disc bugle. Classically, most disc bulges only stick out less than 3mm. Disc herniation and disc bulge are not synonymous.

Symptoms

There are generally no symptoms associated with a disc bulge. Pain associated with a disc bulge will only occur if the disc bulge contacts a spinal nerve or the spinal cord. If a disc bulge compresses a spinal nerve, neck and back pain is likely, and pain may radiate down the arms or legs depending on where the disc bulge is located. If the disc bulge compresses the spinal cord, a combination of neck and back pain can occur with various neurological symptoms such as weakness.

Treatment

A disc bulge will typically require no treatment. Most people will have at least one disc bulge without knowing. Therapy for symptomatic disc bulges is centred around reducing pain, inflammation and mechanically improving the spine and its function. Please contact one of our Balmain chiropractors for more information.