Disc protrusion (also called a bulging disc) is a common back injury that affects intervertebral discs in the spinal column. Intervertebral discs separate vertebrae and provide cushioning, support, movement, and shock absorption in the spine. They’re made up of a tough outer ring enclosing a soft, jelly-like nucleus.
Is cervical disc protrusion serious?
In some patients, a cervical herniated disc can cause spinal cord compression, where disc material pushes on the spinal cord. This is a much more serious condition and may require a more aggressive treatment plan. Spinal cord compression symptoms include: Awkward or stumbling gait.
How do you fix a cervical disc protrusion?
Cervical disc protrusion can be corrected by partial discectomy, discectomy (removal of disc), or laminotomy. These spine surgeries can be done using the minimally invasive method involving smaller cuts and tiny instruments.
How are disc protrusions treated?
Physical therapy, exercise and gentle stretching to help relieve pressure on the nerve root. Ice and heat therapy for pain relief. Manipulation (such as chiropractic manipulation) Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, naproxen or COX-2 inhibitors for pain relief.
Do disc protrusions heal?
Usually a herniated disc will heal on its own over time. Be patient, and keep following your treatment plan. If your symptoms don’t get better in a few months, you may want to talk to your doctor about surgery.
Are disc protrusions common?
Are herniated disks common? Every year, up to 2% of people get a herniated disk. Herniated disks are a leading cause of neck and/or arm, and back and/or leg pain (sciatica). They can happen anywhere along the spine, but herniated disks most often occur in the lower back or the neck.
What causes disc protrusion in neck?
Acute injury to the area can cause a bulging disc in the neck. Long-term trauma, such as poor posture or being overweight, can also cause a bulging disc in the neck. These structures in the spine tend to weaken over time, so aging can increase the risk of a bulging disc in the neck.
Why do cervical discs herniate?
Disk herniation is most often the result of a gradual, aging-related wear and tear called disk degeneration. As you age, your disks become less flexible and more prone to tearing or rupturing with even a minor strain or twist. Most people can’t pinpoint the cause of their herniated disk.
Can cervical disc protrusion heal itself?
The good news is that in most cases — 90% of the time — pain caused by a herniated disc will go away on its own within six months. Initially, your doctor will likely recommend that you take an over-the-counter pain reliever and limit activities that cause pain or discomfort.
Are disc protrusions the same as herniations?
But in some cases, the nucleus pushes completely through the annulus and squeezes out of the disc. This is called a disc herniation or protrusion. Herniation and protrusion are two words for the same thing. If a piece of the disc breaks off, it’s called a sequestered fragment.
What happens if your cervical disc protrudes?
Chronic, local neck and back pain Tingling or numbness Muscle weakness Traveling pain radiating along the nerve’s path Incontinence in extreme cases; this would require emergency treatment Sciatica, if the disc compresses the sciatic nerve The sensation of pins and needles or heat
Can a disc protrusion heal on its own?
Yes!: Most lumbar disc herniations tend to heal on their own. Anti-inflammatory medication and traction type of therapy often helps to relieve the pain. The herniated disc often takes up to 3 months to heal. Seek medical attention if there is progressive pain, inability to walk, numbness, weakness, or any …Read more.
What are the symptoms of a C5-6 disc protrusion?
Cervical disc protrusion symptoms may be any or all of the following: Neck pain Loss of range of motion of neck Pain that radiates down into the hands and fingers Tingling, weakness, and numbness also felt in the hands and fingers or at any point up the arm Generally, these symptoms will only be on one side of the body
What is the treatment for a protruding disc?
Heat therapy increases circulation and soothes sore muscles. Ice therapy helps to reduce swelling and inflammation as well as pain. Your physical therapist or physician can recommend the best rotation of these therapies for your bulging disc.
