What is mild annular bulging?

What is mild annular bulging?

A bulging disc is a condition in which the nucleus (inner portion) of a spinal disc remains contained within the annulus fibrosus (outer portion), unlike a herniated disc in which the nucleus leaks out of the disc.

Is mild disc bulge curable?

Usually a herniated disc will heal on its own over time. Be patient, and keep following your treatment plan. If your symptoms don’t get better in a few months, you may want to talk to your doctor about surgery.

When does a disc bulge require surgery?

Your doctor might recommend surgery as an option for your herniated disc if: Your symptoms have lasted at least 6 weeks and make it hard to do your normal activities, and other treatments haven’t helped. You need to get better quickly because of your job or to get back to your other activities as soon as possible.

Do they do surgery on a bulging disc?

Discectomy is the most common surgery used for herniated disc in the lumbar region. In this procedure, the portion of the disc that is causing the pressure on your nerve root is removed. In some cases, the entire disc is removed. The surgeon will access the disc through an incision in your back (or neck).

Disc bulges are not permanent. The disc is a fluid filled structure and therefore has the capacity to heal, resolve and be re-absorbed.

What does annular bulging in the spine mean?

“Annular bulging” refers to a protrusion from a spinal disc that is still contained by the annulus, connective fibers that give the spinal discs strength. When these fibers are torn or compromised, the condition is known as a herniated disc.

How to prevent annular bulging and herniated discs?

People suffering from osteoarthritis have a higher risk for annular bulging and herniated discs. Exercise to strengthen the back muscles, the use of proper lumbar support when lifting, and weight loss are preventive measures against annular bulging.

How long does it take for annular bulging to heal?

Annular bulging is treated with anti-inflammatory medication and usually heals within several weeks. In contrast, herniated discs may require surgery. Degeneration due to age and excessive physical stress on the spine are the most common causes for annular bulging. Genetic predisposition is also a factor.

What causes a small bulge in the lumbar disc?

Small disc bulge is often asymptomatic. Disc may bulge within foramina or spinal canal. Inner soft and thick gelatinous substance of disc is known as Nucleus Pulposus. Outer concentric tough fibrous tissue, which covers Nucleus Pulposus is known as Outer Fibrous Annulus (see Figure 1).

What does annular bulging mean in medical terms?

“Annular bulging” refers to a protrusion from a spinal disc that is still contained by the annulus, connective fibers that give the spinal discs strength.

What kind of surgery do you need for an annular tear?

An endoscopic discectomy can also be used to treat an annular tear. This minimally invasive procedure can help remove disc fragments from an annular tear — no bone or muscle removal necessary. Individuals with severe annular tears may need a disc replacement or spinal fusion surgery to replace the damaged disc.

Can a minor annular tear cause bulging discs?

Minor annular tears often don’t have any symptoms. If the damage is more severe, you may experience pain in the back or neck while moving or sitting for long periods. Untreated annular tears could lead to more severe conditions like bulging discs.

What does ” mild to moderate diffuse annular bulge with..?

MILD TO MODERATE DIFFUSE ANNULAR BULGE WITH POSTEROCENTRAL PROTUSION OF L5-S1 INTERVERTEBRAL DISC IS SEEN CAUSING CENTRAL CANAL STENOSIS AND BILATERAL LATERAL RECESS NARROWING. MILD DIFFUSE ANNUAL BULGE OF L4-5 INTERVERTEBRAL DISC IS SEEN. REST OF THE LUMBAR INTERVERTEBRAL DISCS REVEAL NO SIGNIFICANT DISC BULGE.