WHAT: Disc Bulges are also known as Disc herniations, Disc protrusions, Disc sequestration or ‘slipped discs’
They are when an intervertebral disc changes shape and becomes more prominent anywhere around its’ circumference.
This may be painful or may be totally unnoticeable. Disc bulges can irritate nearby nerves, causing pain, tingling, numbness and/or weakness along the path of the nerve. A well know example of this is Sciatica.
Pain related to disc injury can last for several months, but usually resolves eventually. Recovery can be aided with pain relieving medication, appropriate movement and exercise, reassurance and family/social support and manual therapy.
Imaging such as X ray or MRI is not necessary for most types of back pain. However it may be useful to inform treatment if back pain is very persistent or other signs & symptoms are present.
SYMPTOMS:
- Pain
- Aching
- Stiffness
- Muscle spasm
- Numbness
- Tingling
- Weakness
⚠️🚩 Seek urgent medical attention if you experience loss or change in control of your bowel or bladder, or numbness or altered sensation in the genital area. This could indicate Cauda Equina Syndrome.
WHO: Lumbar disc bulge is a relatively common condition, especially among older adults. According to a study published in the journal Spine, about 30% to 60% of people without back pain have some degree of lumbar disc bulge on an MRI. However, the prevalence of lumbar disc bulge among people with back pain is even higher, ranging from 60% to 80%.
TREATMENT OPTIONS:
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Movement and exercise as tolerated.
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Pain relief medication, both over the counter and on prescription.
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Ice packs.
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Manual therapy such as Osteopathy, Chiropractic, Physiotherapy, Acupuncture.
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Rehab exercises.
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Kinesiology tape.
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Reassurance.
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Spinal Injections
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Spinal Surgery
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📚Reference: Boden, S. D., Davis, D. O., Dina, T. S., Patronas, N. J., & Wiesel, S. W. (1990). Abnormal magnetic-resonance scans of the lumbar spine in asymptomatic subjects. A prospective investigation. Journal of bone and joint surgery, American volume, 72(3), 403-408.
📚Reference: https://www.nhs.uk/