Spinal discs are located in you neck, middle and lower back. They are shock- absorbing structures that separate your bony vertebral bodies. They allow movement at each spinal level and create room for spinal nerves to exit from the spinal canal and supply your limbs.
A bulging disc also known as a slipped or protruding disc is a condition where the nucleus (inner portion) of a spinal disc remains contained in the annulus fibrosus (outer portion). When a disc bulge is severe the nucleus may come out of the annulus leading to a herniated disc. Issues with discs can be caused by accumulated trauma, sudden trauma or sudden unexpected load.
Bulging discs are a concern as they can put pressure on nerve roots causing severe and debilitating pain.
The most common symptoms of a disc bulge are
Treating inflammation is the first step of settling a bulging disc. This can be achieved by your Physiotherapist with the use of ice, acupuncture, electrotherapy and taping. We can then aid you with restoring function through soft tissue techniques and gentle stretching. Finally we integrate your daily activities through building strength, educating you on manual techniques and empowering you to aid in your recovery.
Although a disc bulge may settle with time alone- Physiotherapy can optimise and speed your recovery up. They will consider your disc bulge size, location and neurological symptoms and recommend a plan to get you back to full health.
If you would like to learn more about our services, or have some questions regarding our treatment options in our Mount Lawley clinic, feel free to give us a call.
You can reach us at (08) 9271 8805 and one of our friendly team members will be happy to answer your questions.
