Spine, Neck & Back Disc Bulge Treatment

Disc Bulge Diagnosis & Treatment In Wayne, New Jersey

A bulging disc is a common condition that occurs when the cushions, or discs, between vertebrae, slip out of place. While a bulge can lead to more serious complications, it can be easily solved with medications, physical therapy, and more. High Mountain Orthopedics offers treatments for disc bulges from our locations in Wayne, New Jersey. Get in touch today to get started with our specialists.

What Is a Bulging Disc?

Your spine is a chain of small, round vertebral bones. Each vertebra is separated from its neighbors by a rubbery cushion called a disc. These discs allow your spine to bend and twist without bones grinding against one another. They also absorb shock so you can maintain an active lifestyle without discomfort. A bulging disc occurs when the jellylike interior, or nucleus, of a disc, pushes the disc wall outward. If the resulting bulge puts pressure on a nerve root, it can lead to some uncomfortable symptoms, such as:

• Shooting pain in a leg or arm
• Pain in the buttocks, thighs, or calves
• Numbness or tingling in a select area of the back
• Arm or shoulder pain that worsens when coughing or sneezing
• Reduced ability to lift or hold heavy items

Some disc bulges don’t cause any symptoms at all. A bulge can easily rupture, however, becoming a herniation.

Causes and Risk Factors

In most cases of disc bulges, it is difficult to identify a cause. Many patients may have a bulge for months before noticing any symptoms, making it hard to pinpoint when the bulge started. Excessive strain or an injury, however, can suddenly create a new disc bulge or exacerbate an existing one. Bulging discs may also be the cause of other conditions, including sciatica or spinal stenosis.

Researchers have identified several factors that put certain individuals more at risk than others, including:

• Age: Normal wear and tear throughout a person’s life may weaken disc walls, making them more susceptible to bulging.
• Weight: Many disc bulges have been linked to excessive pressure put on the spine, often due to extra body weight to support.
• Occupation: Disc bulges may be connected to physically demanding jobs that require repetitive lifting, bending, or twisting.
• Smoking: Spinal discs naturally receive very little oxygen. Smoking can further decrease that supply, impacting their ability to recover from wear.

Our Treatments For Bulging Discs

Though disc bulges can be a cause for more dangerous issues, they are not themselves a serious concern. Most disc bulges cause relatively mild symptoms and are easily treatable. Painkillers, anti-inflammatory medication, and muscle relaxers help to relieve pain. Meanwhile, physical therapy can help work the disc back into its place while strengthening your muscles to provide better support.

Very rarely, a disc bulge may require surgery. We only recommend this treatment when the condition is severe and if non-invasive approaches have failed. We’ll also discuss the surgery at length with you, making sure you have the information you need to make an informed decision about your treatment.

Receive Orthopedic Care in Northern New Jersey

If you or a loved one may have a bulging disc, orthopedic care can help. High Mountain Orthopedics can help manage or treat your condition through medication, physical therapy, surgery, and other means. We serve patients in Wayne, NJ. To find out more, contact us and schedule an in-person or telemedicine appointment to discuss your condition.