A bulging disc is a common spinal injury that can cause discomfort and pain. The spinal column consists of a series of bones, called vertebrae, that are separated by soft, rubbery discs. A bulging disc occurs when the disc protrudes outward, which can put pressure on surrounding nerves and cause pain. But can a bulging disc get worse?
Understanding A Bulging Disc
Before we can answer the question of whether a bulging disc can get worse, it’s essential to understand what it is. As mentioned earlier, a bulging disc occurs when the soft, rubbery disc between two vertebrae protrudes outward. This can happen due to age, trauma, or wear and tear on the spine. A bulging disc can cause a range of symptoms, including pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the affected area.
Can A Bulging Disc Get Worse?
Yes, a bulging disc can worsen if not properly managed. The protrusion of the disc can increase, which can lead to more pressure on the surrounding nerves and spinal cord. This can cause worsening symptoms, such as severe pain, muscle weakness, and loss of bladder or bowel control. Therefore, it’s crucial to seek medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms.
Treatment Options
Fortunately, there are several treatment options available for managing a bulging disc. These can include physical therapy, chiropractic care, medication, and in severe cases, surgery.
Physical Therapy
When treating bulging discs with physical therapy, the primary goal is to strengthen the muscles around the affected area. This is because stronger muscles can help to support the spine and reduce pressure on the affected disc. By doing so, the pain and discomfort associated with the bulging disc can be alleviated.
Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic care can be an effective treatment option for people with bulging discs, as it can help to realign the spine and reduce pressure on the affected nerve. During chiropractic treatment, the chiropractor will use gentle, manual adjustments to manipulate the spine, which can help to improve mobility and alleviate pain. In addition, chiropractic care may include other treatment modalities such as massage, stretching, and exercise, which can help to strengthen the muscles and support the spine. Overall, chiropractic care can be a safe and effective way to manage the symptoms and improve overall spinal health.
Medications
Medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and muscle relaxants can be helpful in managing the pain and discomfort associated with bulging discs. NSAIDs can help to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain, while muscle relaxants can help to reduce muscle tension and spasm. However, it is important to note that these medications only provide temporary relief and do not address the underlying issue. Therefore, it is important to also incorporate other treatment modalities such as physical therapy or chiropractic care to address the root cause of the problem and prevent further injury.
Surgery
In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to address the symptoms that do not improve with non-surgical treatments. During surgery, the protruding part of the disc may be removed to alleviate pressure on the nerves and reduce pain and discomfort. However, surgery is usually considered a last resort option as it is associated with certain risks and potential complications, and recovery can take a significant amount of time.
Seek Professional Help For Bulging Disc Pain
It’s essential to seek professional help from a specialist if you are experiencing symptoms of a bulging disc,. At Advanced Pain and Spine Management, we have board-certified pain management specialists who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of spinal injuries, including bulging discs. We use state-of-the-art techniques and equipment to provide personalized treatment plans to our patients, helping us manage their pain and improve their quality of life.
If you are experiencing symptoms of a bulging disc, seek professional help from a specialist at Advanced Pain and Spine Management for personalized treatment and effective pain relief.