Is my pain caused by a bulging disc?
Your back pain may be caused by a bulging disc. It is a spinal intervertebral disc that has a protrusion on its side which may be irritating nearby facet joints or impinging on the spinal cord. Many confuse a herniated disc with a bulging disc. With a bulging disc, there is no break in the annulus fibrosis, the rigid ring that contains the soft center of the disc which is called the annulus pulpous. Many patients may have a bulging disc but feel no pain. It all depends on the proximity of the bulge to adjacent nerves and bones. A bulging disc can cause narrowing of your spinal canal that can result in segmental spinal stenosis.
With a herniated disc, there is a break or herniation in the rigid disc which allows the content of the disc to leak out.
What causes a bulging disc?
What are the usual treatments for a bulging disc?
If the pain from your bulging disc persists despite your best efforts to deal with them conservatively, surgery may be your best option. Dr. Nourian will review all your surgical options and thoroughly explain his Opiate-Free Surgery and Pain Management System which has helped hundreds of patients recover from back pain. Dr. Nourian specializes in the full range of microdecompression surgeries which help eliminate pressure caused by bulging or herniated discs.
A microlaminotomy is a minimally invasive procedure for treating a bulging disc. The surgeon makes an extremely small incision and uses specially-designed tools to open your lamina to provide more room for the bulging disc. For a larger bulging disc, a microdiscectomy or removal of a disc may be your best surgical option. In some cases, spinal fusion may be required. Microsurgical techniques reduce pain, curb inflammation, cut infection rates and provide faster recovery times.
How is a bulging disc diagnosed?
Your doctor will physically examine your spine and inquire about any problems that you may be having regarding urination or having a bowel movement. Don’t be embarrassed. This information will help rule out issues relating to your spinal cord. X-rays are routinely taken to assess the overall condition of the spine. A common test for identifying a bulging disc is an MRI. For more details, your doctor may request a Myelogram and a CT scan.
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Neck & Spine Specialities
Dr. Nourian has an enviable record of successfully treating the full spectrum of neck and spine problems.
Arthritis
Bulging/Herniated Discs
Disease & Disorders
Degeneration
Fractures
Infections
Injuries
Sciatica
Scoliosis
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General Orthopedics
Specialist in treating a wide variety of injuries and conditions that impact bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles and nerves.
Arthritis
Bursitis
Chronic Pain
Deformities
Disorders
Fractures
Injuries
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