What does mild posterior disc bulge mean?

What does mild posterior disc bulge mean?

When a disc is damaged, it may herniate, or push out, against the spinal cord and spinal nerves. A ‘disc bulge’ is a word commonly used to describe a slight outpouching of the disc. The words ‘disc bulge’ imply that the disc appears symmetric with a small amount of outpouching, and no significant herniation.

Does a mild disc bulge require surgery?

Most herniated discs do not require surgery. In approximately 9 out of 10 people, symptoms will resolve over days to weeks. Some people who have a herniated disc do not experience any symptoms at all. Sometimes, however, the herniated disc presses against a nerve in the spinal column.

What is a posterior disk bulge?

A bulging disc occurs when the nucleus pulposus—the soft, jelly-like center of the disc that gives the disc shock-absorbing capacities—extends beyond its normal position inside the disc structure, but remains contained within the annulus fibrosus.

What causes posterior disc bulge?

Although bulging discs occur over time, herniated discs may occur quickly by trauma. Bad posture including improper body positioning during sleep, sitting, standing or exercise are all risk factors which may contribute to the development of a bulging disc. High contact sports or activities are also risk factors.

How is a mild disc bulge treated?

Injections. If rest, pain relievers, and physical therapy don’t help with your pain, your doctor can inject a steroid medicine into the space around your spinal nerve. This is called an epidural injection. The steroid can help bring down the swelling, help you move more easily, and ease pain from a herniated disk.

Can bulging discs be reversed?

While the condition cannot be fully reversed, efforts can be made to control its progression and promote some regeneration. Treating degenerative disc disease involves controlling its progression. Depending on the approach, you can either treat it as a condition, or address its actual cause.