What To Do About a Bulging Disc in Your Back?

The discs of the spine are very important as they act like cushions separating the vertebrae in the back. They are also known as shock absorbers as they absorb shock when you move, This protects the bone from injury.

Each back disc is made up of two main parts. Firstly, the strong outer covering called the annulus. And secondly, a soft jelly like center called the nucleus. The nerves of the spine are located directly behind each spinal disc. This is the source of the pain experienced with bulging discs. The cause of the pain is the pressure on the nerves that occurs from the changes that are taking place in the damaged disc.

Bulging disc  or more commonly referred to as herniated disc in the back can lead to a great deal of pain. When you suffer a bulging disc, the outer layer of the disc is damaged, and the jelly in the center of the disc will begin to shift into the weaker part of the disc.

This shift in substance in the disc, results in a 'bulge' in the disc wall, hence it's name. This bulge in the disc wall will put pressure onto one of the nerves of the spine, which is why the condition is so painful.

A bulging disc can cause discomfort and disability in various parts of the body. Approximately 90% of bulging discs occur in the lower back or lumbar area of the spine.

Symptoms of a bulging disc depend very much on the location of the affected disc in the spine. Some people may experience pain in their legs and hips if the lower back is affected. While others may feel pain in the arms if the problem is in the shoulder region in the upper back. Only a proper medical examination can determine the presence of a bulging disc. This will include X-rays. MRI or CT scans.

So what can you do about a bulging disc in your back? Firstly, the treatment you receive will depend on the severity of the pain you have from a bulging disc.Your doctor will assess your needs best and recommend the best course of treatment.

Rest plays an important role in the recovery of a bulging disc. This helps to relieve the pressure and stress on your spine. A good mattress combined with a pillow under your knees in bed can help to alleviate the pain. A word of caution though. Too much rest is not advised after the initial onset of pain, as it can make the muscles become weaker and aggravate the condition.

Mild exercise is often suggested and you may be referred to a physical therapist. Under their instruction they will give you the correct exercises to improve and strengthen your back muscles, reducing inflammation and pain. You can also be shown ways to improve your posture to offer maximum rest and less stress to your spine.

In the treatment of pain relief, doctors often prescribe anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen, codeine or asprin. However, if the pain is more severe, you may be offered an epidural steroid injection. As well as relieving pain they act as an anti-inflammatory as well.

If the pain is so severe that it is affecting your quality of life and mobility, surgery may be suggested. This is often used as  a last resort due to the possibility of permanent nerve damage. Surgery is usually considered in cases when the protrusion of the disc is more in the spinal canal. The surgery is aimed at relieving the pain and reducing further wear and tear.

A bulging disc can be very painful, so it is important to know which activities you should avoid so as not to aggravate the condition. You should protect your back when lifting, learning the correct techniques. Using a good posture when sitting or standing. The correct chair and mattress that support your back are essential.

Maintaining a healthy weight can make a big difference in controlling the pain of a bulging disc. Less weight means less stress for your spine.

Regular exercise is important to keep your back flexible and healthy. You should also be aware that age is another risk factor for bulging discs. Discs tend to become weaker and less elastic with age. Sadly there is nothing that can be done about the ageing process, but taking good care of yourself will help in controlling the affects of a bulging disc.