see all

Spine Conditions A-Z

More Bulging Disc Information

Bulging Disc?



Bulging Disc animation of bulge pressing on a nerve

What is a Bulging Disc in the Neck or Back?

Quite simply put, a bulging disc is a bulge in the outer layer of a vertebral disc. A disc bulge happens when the outer shell of a spinal disc weakens to the point where pressure causes it to bulge. Not all disc bulges will actually cause symptoms; they only happen when the bulge rubs or touches nerves or surrounding structures.

A bulging disc in the neck or back should not be confused with a herniated disc. Although they may have similar symptoms a herniated disc happens when the inner material of the disc seeps through a crack in its outer shell.

A bulging disc is usually a clear sign that there are problems in the surrounding areas of the spine. The problems may be caused by increased pressure being placed on the spinal disc, or by the disc weakening from degeneration. A bulging disc in the neck or back can be one of the causes of spinal stenosis, sciatica, or a pinched nerve.

Note From Dr. LiuA bulging disc in the back or neck will rarely require surgery. Conservative treatment and activity modification is all that is usually required.

Healthy Disc Compared to a Bulging Disc

The diagrams below show two different stages of a bulging disc; healthy disc and a disc bulge. Most people will not notice the degeneration stage before the disc bulges as there is no actual pressure being placed on the surrounding nerves/structure.

HEALTHY SPINE A Healthy Vertebral Disc

Figure 1a. Healthy strong vertebral disc.

BULGING DISC A Bulging Disc

Figure 1b. A bulging disc once the inner disc material bulges outward.


Are you suffering from a bulging disc?

To help determine if you are suffering from a bugling disc, we offer a very simple 3 step process that will help provide you the answers you need to make the most informed decision you can on what treatment is best for you.

Begin 3 Step Diagnosis Process

Need assistance, or for answers to any questions you have please contact us now or call (877) 272-4535.