Bulging Disc Causes - What Are They?

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Bulging Disc Causes - What Are They?

Although most are asymptomatic, when a bulging disc does present symptoms, it can be debilitating for the afflicted person. Pain, numbness, tingling, and more symptoms of this condition often cause sufferers to wonder, “What exactly causes a bulging disc and how can I avoid it?”

Although the source of the condition is different for everyone, and may even be a combination of factors, some of the most common bulging disc causes are:

Aging - As we grow older, the spinal discs become weaker and more brittle due to water loss. If the outer layer of a disc becomes too weak, it can begin to protrude in an area as the jelly-like inner layer presses outward. The resulting bulge can potentially put pressure on a nearby nerve root or the spinal cord.
Physical trauma - Car accidents, collisions during rough sports, and other trauma can cause damage to the disc in a way that causes it to stretch beyond its normal limits and begin to bulge.
Genetics - Just like with many conditions, some people may simply be genetically predisposed to have weaker, thinner spinal discs, putting them more at risk for bulging disc.

Regardless of why it came about, a bulging disc can usually be treated effectively with conservative methods like hot and cold compresses, steroid injections, stretching, and more. For most people, these techniques can free them from symptoms enough to live a happy, healthy life. However, a small percentage of sufferers will find that they simply cannot achieve relief with any of these methods, and their doctor may recommend surgery as a last resort. If you’re in this position, then consider endoscopic spinal surgery at Laser Spine Institute, the leader in minimally invasive spine procedures. Laser Spine Institute perform a number of procedures to treat the symptoms a bulging disc causes and help you rediscover a life without back and neck pain.

To learn more about bulging disc causes, or to have one of the expert medical team members at Laser Spine Institute review your MRI or CT scan free of charge, contact them today.

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