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Dealing with back pain can be a real struggle, especially when it’s caused by issues with your spinal discs.
Two common culprits are bulging discs and herniated discs.
Knowing the difference between them and how they can be treated is important for finding relief.
Let’s check them out!
What is a Bulging Disc?
A bulging disc happens when the outer layer of the disc starts to weaken and pushes out a bit.
This can be caused by aging, repetitive movements, or poor posture.
- Causes: Getting older, repetitive actions, bad posture, and spinal injuries.
- Symptoms: Pain in the back, tingling or numbness in the limbs, and muscle weakness.
- Diagnosis: Doctors use physical exams, MRI scans, or CT scans to see how much the disc is bulging.
At Orthobiologics Associates, we use advanced imaging and thorough exams to figure out if you have a bulging disc.
We then create a personalized plan to help you feel better without surgery.
What is a Herniated Disc?
A herniated disc, also known as a slipped or ruptured disc, is when the inner gel-like core of the disc leaks out through a tear in the outer layer.
This can press on nearby nerves, causing significant pain.
- Causes: Lifting something heavy suddenly, traumatic injury, or severe strain on the spine.
- Symptoms: Sharp pain, pain that radiates down your limbs, numbness, and muscle weakness.
- Diagnosis: Just like with bulging discs, herniated discs are diagnosed using physical exams, MRI scans, or CT scans.
We use state-of-the-art tools at Orthobiologics Associates to diagnose herniated discs and create treatment plans tailored to your needs.
Bulging Disc vs. Herniated Disc: What’s the Difference?
While both affect your spinal discs, the main difference is in the severity:
- Bulging Disc: The disc pushes outward but doesn’t break open.
- Herniated Disc: The inner part of the disc breaks through the outer layer.
Understanding these differences helps in getting the right treatment.
How Orthobiologics Associates Can Help
Orthobiologics Associates offers a variety of advanced, non-surgical treatments to manage and treat bulging vs. herniated discs.
Our approach focuses on you, using the latest medical advancements to treat discs quickly.
1. Discseel Procedure
The Discseel procedure is a minimally invasive treatment that uses an FDA-approved sealant to repair damaged discs.
It can reduce pain and improve function without traditional surgery.
2. Cell Therapy
We offer regenerative medicine treatments like Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy and Stem Cell Therapy.
These treatments use your body’s own healing mechanisms to repair damaged tissues, helping with both bulging and herniated discs.
3. Functional Rehabilitation
Our functional rehabilitation programs are customized to improve your strength, flexibility, and overall spinal health.
This helps you recover from disc injuries and prevents future problems.
4. Interventional Procedures
We use procedures like epidural steroid injections, nerve blocks, and radiofrequency ablation to manage pain and inflammation.
These treatments provide targeted relief and improve your overall outcome.
5. Physical Therapy
Our therapists design personalized plans to strengthen your muscles, increase flexibility, and support spinal health.
6. Preventive Measures
We believe in preventing problems before they start.
Our specialists at Orthobiologics Associates provide advice on lifestyle changes, exercises, and physical therapy routines to keep your spine healthy.
Conclusion
Back pain from bulging or herniated discs can be tough, but there are effective treatments available.
Orthobiologics Associates specializes in advanced, non-surgical treatments tailored to your needs.
If you’re dealing with back pain, contact Orthobiologics Associates for expert diagnosis and treatment.
Our personalized approach can help you get back to living your life without pain!
FAQ
What is worse, bulging or herniated disc?
A herniated disc is generally considered worse than a bulging disc because it involves a tear in the outer layer of the disc, causing the inner gel-like core to leak out and potentially compress nearby nerves. This can lead to more severe pain and symptoms compared to a bulging disc, where the disc remains intact but protrudes outward.
How do you tell if a disc is bulging or herniated?
A bulging disc can be identified when the disc extends beyond its normal boundary but the outer layer remains unbroken. In contrast, a herniated disc occurs when there is a rupture in the outer layer, allowing the inner material to escape. Diagnosis typically involves imaging tests such as MRI or CT scans, along with a physical examination by a healthcare professional.
Can a disc bulge turn into a herniation?
Yes, a bulging disc can progress into a herniation if the outer layer of the disc weakens further or tears, allowing the inner core to protrude through the outer layer. This progression can increase the severity of symptoms and pain.
Can a bulging disc heal?
A bulging disc can heal over time with proper treatment and care. Non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy, regenerative medicine, and lifestyle changes can help reduce symptoms and promote healing. However, the extent of healing depends on the severity of the bulge and the individual’s overall health.
Can you feel a bulging disc by touch?
No, a bulging disc cannot be felt by touch. The disc is located deep within the spine, and its condition can only be accurately assessed through imaging tests like MRI or CT scans.
Can an MRI tell the difference between a bulging disc and a herniated disc?
Yes, an MRI can differentiate between a bulging disc and a herniated disc. An MRI provides detailed images of the spine, allowing healthcare professionals to see whether the disc is simply bulging or if there is a rupture in the outer layer indicating a herniation.
How painful is a bulging disc?
The pain from a bulging disc can vary widely. Some people experience mild discomfort, while others may have severe pain that affects their daily activities. The level of pain depends on the extent of the bulge and whether it is pressing on nearby nerves.
What is the best relief for a bulging disc?
The best relief for a bulging disc typically includes a combination of treatments such as physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, regenerative medicine therapies like PRP or stem cell therapy, and lifestyle modifications. Each treatment plan should be personalized to the individual’s specific condition and needs.
Can walking fix a bulging disc?
Walking can help alleviate symptoms of a bulging disc by promoting circulation, reducing inflammation, and strengthening the muscles that support the spine. However, while walking can be beneficial, it is unlikely to completely fix a bulging disc. A comprehensive treatment plan including physical therapy and other medical interventions is usually necessary for optimal recovery.
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