The Difference Between Bulging And Herniated Discs

Every time you turn your head to check traffic, lean in to select produce at the farmers market, or swing a golf club, you are relying on the flexibility of your spine. This column of discs stacked between vertebrae works with your muscles to support your body’s weight, and allows you to move through your day. This article shares the difference between bulging and herniated discs, as well as anatomy, symptoms, and treatment.

Understand spine anatomy

You have 23 discs between the vertebrae in your spinal column. Each disc has two components: a tough outer covering composed of cartilage and a soft gelatinous inner core—a bit like the composition of a jelly doughnut. As you move, these discs are able to expand and give your spine flexibility. Your discs act primarily as shock absorbers, but they also function as mobile joints and help hold the spine together. Because spinal discs have very few nerve endings and no blood supply, they don’t have a way to repair themselves. As we age, spinal discs naturally become stiffer and degenerate, making them less able to adjust to compression. Trauma to the spine can also cause disc compression injuries.

Difference between bulging and herniated discs

Some compression injuries are asymptomatic (no symptoms present); others can cause pain, balance problems, or difficulty walking. There are two common types of disc degeneration: bulging discs and herniated discs.

• Bulging discs are more common, and usually do not cause pain. They occur when the disc extends beyond the space it should normally occupy. Think of a bulging disc as a hamburger that’s too big for its bun. Bulging is usually considered part of the normal aging process of the disc.
• Herniated discs—also called a ruptured or slipped discs—occur when a crack in the tough outer layer of cartilage allows some of the softer inner disc material to protrude out of the disc. Although some herniated discs are painless, this disc injury is more likely to cause pain.

Are disc problems painful?

Just because discs deteriorate over time does not mean that the process is painful. Research reported by the National Institutes of Health has shown that 22 to 51 percent of people with MRI findings of a bulging or herniated disc are asymptomatic; the injuries don’t cause pain. These percentages go up as we age; 57 to 80 percent of people who are 60 and older have disc irregularities without experiencing any related discomfort.

If you do experience back pain, an accurate clinical diagnosis begins with a complete physical exam by an orthopedic spine specialist. Exam findings will be correlated with your specific symptoms. Then, a diagnostic test like an MRI or CT scan will be used to confirm the diagnosis. When back pain interferes with your activities or comfort, we are focused on accurately diagnosing the problem and developing a tailored treatment plan that will restore you to the lifestyle you enjoy.

Bulging disc and herniated disc treatment options

Summit Orthopedics is home to Minneapolis/St. Paul’s top spine specialists for bulging disc and herniated disc treatment. A diagnosis of bulging or herniated disc can usually be addressed with conservative nonsurgical treatment focused on reducing disc irritation. Our spine specialists work with you to correct your posture and strengthen your core—and may prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs as necessary. If nonsurgical treatments fail to support your lifestyle goals, fellowship-trained spine surgeons are here to consult with you and discuss appropriate surgical options.

Summit Orthopedics offers comprehensive spine expertise

Our back specialists diagnose spine problems and design custom treatment plans built on a conservative, nonsurgical approach. Most patients find relief through treatments including guided injections, specialized physical therapy, biofeedback, exercise, activity modification, and medication. When conservative care does not relieve symptoms, our highly skilled surgeons offer proven, evidence-based surgical options. Together with you, we will determine the right course of action.

Start your journey to a healthy spine. Find your spine expert, request an appointment online, or call us at (651) 968–5201 to schedule a spine consultation.

Summit has convenient locations across the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area, serving Minnesota and western Wisconsin. We have state-of-the-art centers for comprehensive orthopedic care in Eagan, MN, Plymouth, MN, Vadnais Heights, MN, and Woodbury, MN, as well as additional community clinics throughout the metro and southern Minnesota.

Spine related resources

• Check out additional information on Summit’s approach to spine care
• See Summit’s treatment options for neck, back, and spine care

More resources for you

• Watch the video for more on the difference between bulging and herniated discs
• Read the article to learn more about Bulging Discs or Herniated Discs
• When Do Bulging Discs Need Surgery?
• Ask Dr. Wahlquist: What Are My Treatment Options For A Herniated Disc?
• Ask Dr. Strothman: When Is Surgery Effective For A Herniated Disc?

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