What Are the Treatments for a Bulging Disc at L4?

A bulging or herniated disc at L4, a lumbar disc toward the bottom of the spine, occurs when the soft nucleus inside the disc cartilage extends beyond its usual space and exerts pressure on spinal nerves. This can cause inflammation, swelling and pain. Most bulging discs will eventually heal with treatment.

Significance

People should rest when they suffer from a bulging L4 disc to prevent further injury. During this time, a brace may be used to prevent sudden movement.

Types of Treatment

Anti-inflammatory treatments such as ibuprofen and naproxen can be used to alleviate inflammation and pain for a bulging L4 disc. Corticosteroid epidurals may be prescribed for more severe pain, according to Spine-Health.com.

Other Types of Treatment

Topical creams such as Bio Freeze can provide pain relief for a bulging L4 disc for up to four or five hours.

Alternating hot and cold packs on the area may also help.

Effects of Exercise

Exercising on a therapy ball, walking and stretching should be done once the initial swelling and inflammation have subsided. Exercise can increase blood flow and expedite the healing process.

Time Frame

A bulging disc can take up to six months to completely heal.

References

• Spine-Health: Lumbar Herniated Disc
• The Mayo Clinic: Herniated disk guide
• Disabled-World: Relieve L5 - S1 Bulging Disc Pain

Resources

• The Mayo Clinic: What's the difference between a bulging disk and a herniated disk?
• Arthritis Treatment and Relief: Exercises and bulging discs
• Cigna Health: Herniated Disc