What’s the difference between a bulging disc and a herniated disc?

Both bulging discs and herniated discs affect the spine and can cause pain, but they aren’t the same thing. The key difference is how much the disc is damaged and how it affects surrounding nerves.

🟠 Bulging Disc:

• The outer layer of the disc remains intact, but the disc pushes outward, causing pressure on nearby nerves.
• Often develops gradually due to aging, poor posture, or repetitive stress.
• Symptoms may include mild back pain, stiffness, or occasional numbness but are often less severe than a herniated disc.

🔴 Herniated Disc:

• The outer layer of the disc is torn, allowing the soft inner material to leak out. This can directly irritate nerves and cause more intense pain.
• Often caused by a sudden injury, lifting improperly, or disc degeneration.
• Symptoms can include sharp pain, tingling, weakness, or shooting pain (sciatica) that radiates down the arms or legs.

💡 What to Do If You Have a Disc Issue?
Both conditions can often be treated without surgery using:
✅ Physical therapy to strengthen muscles and support the spine.
✅ Interventional spine treatments like epidural injections to reduce inflammation.
✅ Regenerative medicine (PRP, prolotherapy) to promote disc healing.
✅ Minimally invasive treatments if pain persists.

If you’re unsure which condition you have, an MRI or evaluation by a spine specialist can help determine the best treatment plan.

‍