What happens if a bulging disc goes untreated?

If a bulging disc is untreated, the symptoms will become worse as the constant pressure on the nerve intensifies the sensations. This can also cause issues with walking, and even while holding objects, as the pressure impedes the ability of the nerves to transmit information properly.

Is a bulging disc serious?

One of the most significant complications of a bulging disc is permanent nerve damage. Without treatment, compressed nerve roots in the spine can be permanently damaged, leading to chronic pain, weakness, and loss of sensation.

What parts of the body does a bulging disc affect?

Any pain, numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness you experience may extend from your upper back into your shoulders and arms, or it may radiate from your mid-back down into your lower back, buttocks, and legs.

How do you fix a bulging disc?

Can a bulging disc get worse?

Do disc bulges get worse over time? Unfortunately if disc bulges are left untreated, and if the abnormal spinal stresses that caused them continue, they will often worsen over time.

Which is worse bulging or herniated disk?

Herniated discs are considered more severe than bulging discs because they put significant pressure on nearby nerves, which can cause intense pain, inflammation and difficulties with movement.

Can bulging discs return to normal?

Most (80-90%) cases involving bulging or herniated discs will heal within 2-4 months. This of course depends on the severity of the injury, as well as your age and overall health. An important difference is that a herniated disc is a permanent injury that usually results in chronic, recurring pain.

What is the best pain medication for a bulging disc?

What is the best medication for a herniated disc?
Best medications for a herniated disc
Motrin, Advil (ibuprofen) Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs Oral
OxyContin (oxycodone) Opioid Oral
Percocet (oxycodone and acetaminophen) Opioid Oral
Vicodin (hydrocodone and acetaminophen) Opioid Oral
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Oct 5, 2020

Can a chiropractor fix a bulging disc?

If you are in pain because of a herniated or bulging disc, chiropractic treatment can ease some pressure on your disc. Decompression strategies such as stretching and traction are used to open up the space between your vertebrae. You will be taught strengthening exercises to keep your spine in alignment.

What should I avoid with a bulging disc?

A person with a disc herniation should avoid heavy lifting, sudden pressure on the back, or repetitive strenuous activities during recovery. People should avoid all exercises that cause pain or feel as though they are making the pain worse.

Can a bulging disc cause hip pain?

Most lower spine problems are caused by a herniated disk that presses on nerves in the spinal column. This produces the pain known as sciatica, which can be felt in the hip. You may have a herniated disk if pain: Is limited to your back, buttocks or hip.

What is the difference between herniated and bulging disc?

“A bulging disc is like letting air out of a car tire. The disc sags and looks like it is bulging outward. With a herniated disc, the outer covering of the disc has a hole or tear. This causes the nucleus pulposus (jelly-like center of the disc) to leak into the spinal canal.”

Is laying down good for bulging disc?

The optimal sleeping position for a herniated disc is on your back. Lying on your back keeps your spine in a neutral position so you have less chance of pinching the nerve. For added comfort, nestle a small pillow or rolled-up towel under your knees and lower back.

Is bed rest good for bulging disc?

Most often 1-2 days of strict bed rest will calm severe back pain. Bed rest should not exceed 48 hours. Once you are back into your daily routine, you should take frequent rest breaks throughout the day- but avoid sitting for long periods of time.

What is the fastest way to heal a bulging disc?

Treatment with rest, pain medication, spinal injections, and physical therapy is the first step to recovery. Most people improve in 6 weeks and return to normal activity. If symptoms continue, surgery may be recommended.

Is walking good for bulging disc?

Absolutely. Walking is an excellent choice for patients with herniated discs, as it stimulates blood flow and oxygen to the cells. It also helps keep your discs hydrated, which is important for healing. Other low-impact aerobic activities to try are swimming and cycling.

Why is back pain at night a red flag?

Nocturnal back pain is also a symptom of spinal bone infection (osteomyelitis) and ankylosing spondylitis (AS), a condition that can cause the spine to fuse in a fixed, immobile position. Other “red flags” include: Back pain that spreads down one or both legs. Weakness, numbness, or tingling in legs.

Can you fix a bulging disc without surgery?

When the centre or nucleus of a disc pushes out and even passes through the wall of the disc, this is what we refer to as a herniated disc. The good news is that the vast majority of herniated discs can be treated without surgery using manual therapy and exercise or with IDD Therapy disc treatment.