Herniation Vs. Bulging Disc

When discussing back problems, the uninformed use the terms "bulging disc" and "herniated disc" interchangeably. They are, however, two different terms that describe slightly different conditions.

Disc Definition

A spinal disc is a soft cushion found between two vertebrae. The disc consists of the elastic but durable outer cover and the soft inner gel-like material.

Bulging Disc

According to the Mayo Clinic, a bulging disc is slightly displaced from its normal location between the two vertebrae, and it bulges out slightly.

Herniated Disc

Spine Universe says a disc is herniated when its elastic outer covering has ruptured and the inner material has pushed out from the disc.

Pain

A herniated disc is more likely to cause pain than a bulging disc. According to Spine Universe, a herniated disc causes pain because it puts pressure on the nerve, but it also releases chemicals that irritate the nerves.

Treatment

A bulging disc may not require treatment until it becomes a herniated disc. A herniated disc can require treatments that range from physical therapy to surgical removal of the protruding inner material.

References

• Spine Health
• Mayo Clinic
• Spine Universe