Bulging Disc

Bulging Disc
What is a Bulging Disc?
Treatment Options
Recovery Time
Level of Activity after Treatment

What is a Bulging Disc?

Bulging disc refers to shifting of the central, soft gelatin-like nucleus of the disc, out of its normal position. Bulging disc can occur throughout the spine, in the neck, middle of the back and low back. The disc sits in between the bony vertebra, in front of the spine. The movement of the adjacent vertebra are facilitated by the disc. When the gelatin like substance is displaced to the periphery, or the tough surrounding band loses its resilience, bulging of the disc can occur.

Symptoms of a Bulging Disc: Presentation and symptoms could vary greatly. Most patients complain of neck pain or back pain. Pain is aggravated by sitting, bending or twisting. Patients complain of a nagging pain in the back of the neck or the lower spine. As the bulge advances towards the nerve it can cause a pinched nerve, with arm or leg pain, numbness, tingling or muscle weakness.

Causes of a Bulging Disc: The two major components of the disc, the tough surrounding band and the softer central gelatin substance, provide the shape and proper functioning of the disc. Traumatic damage to either component can lead to bulging of the disc. The disc loses its height and pushes into the central canal of the spine.

Diagnosis of a Bulging Disk: A careful clinical history and examination can help establish the diagnosis. Initial screening X-rays can help evaluate basic spinal alignment and the disc height. More detailed imaging may be used to evaluate the tearing or the actual bulging of the disc. MRI is a sensitive and accurate study for this condition.

Treatment Options

Once the diagnosis of bulging disc is established, treatment is individualized for the particular symptom severity and functional loss. The goal of treatment is provide a lasting pain relief, through the least invasive treatment. In majority of cases non-surgical treatments can help. In cases of persistent pain, evaluation by a spine specialist is indicated. Dr. Mohamed Mohi Eldin uses a multi-disciplinary approach for the treatment of spine disorders and bulging disc. Through his close association with physical therapist, pain management specialists and psychiatrists, patients can benefit from a wide spectrum of non-surgical interventions. For those select patients that conservative care does not provide adequate relief, minimally-invasive discectomy is recommended.

Recovery Time

The neck and back surgery addresses the pressure effect of the bulging disc on the nerve and spine. The micordecompression surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure, with the patient leaving for home a few hours after the procedure. After surgery you need two weeks to relax and avoid strenuous activities. The minimally-invasive procedures spare the muscles, and are carried out with smaller incisions than used in conventional surgery. Healing time is shorter and most patients are able to return to work in 3 to 4 weeks.

Level of Activity after Treatment

Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activity, bending, lifting and twisting movements for 2 weeks. During the first evaluation after surgery, Dr. Mohamed Mohi Eldin will discuss the timing for increasing physical activities and strengthening exercise program.

Why Select Dr. Mohamed Mohi Eldin?