Bulging discs can cause debilitating pain and reduced mobility, particularly in athletes and individuals with physically demanding jobs. While commonly associated with the aging process, disc deterioration can also be influenced by factors like smoking tobacco. Although similar to herniated discs, bulging discs differ in their structural integrity. Chiropractic care has proven to be a highly effective treatment for bulging discs and associated pain. Explore this article to understand what a bulging disc is, its symptoms, diagnosis methods, and the benefits of chiropractic care.

Understanding Bulging Discs

Bulging discs are often thought to be the same as herniated discs, but that is incorrect. A herniated disc involves a crack in the disc's outer layer, called an annulus. In contrast, a bulging disc does not have a crack. Instead, it protrudes out of the space without any material protrusion. Furthermore, a bulging disc affects a larger area of the disc compared to a herniated disc.

Although a herniated disc is typically more painful, a bulging disc can also cause significant pain that may worsen over time.

Symptoms and Diagnosis of Bulging Discs

Symptoms of a bulging disc may include tingling, numbness, or muscle weakness in one or both legs, changes in bowel or bladder function, hyperreflexivity in one or both legs, paralysis below the waist, deep pain over the shoulder blade or in the shoulder area, pain when moving the neck, and radiating pain in the fingers, forearm, and upper arm.

To diagnose a bulging disc, healthcare professionals often combine various methods. These include physical examinations, comprehensive medical history assessments, and imaging tests such as MRI, x-ray, and myelogram with CT scan. By utilizing these diagnostic tools, doctors can determine the extent of the bulging disc and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Chiropractic Treatment for Bulging Discs

Chiropractic care is a preferred treatment method for many patients with bulging discs due to its non-invasive nature that avoids the use of drugs or injections. Once a diagnosis is confirmed, patients can collaborate with their chiropractors to find the best approach for their condition.

Chiropractors begin by verifying the diagnosis through questions about the patient's medical history, conducting a physical examination, and assessing nerve function, reflexes, and muscle tone. Additional diagnostic imaging, such as MRI or x-ray, may also be ordered to gain a better understanding of the situation.

One of the most significant advantages of chiropractic care is its holistic approach to wellness. Rather than solely focusing on the painful area, chiropractors consider the entire spine. They treat the entire spine to promote overall healing, provide self-care guidance, recommend appropriate exercises, and offer nutritional advice for ongoing progress and pain-free living. Chiropractors address potential spinal misalignment as a contributing factor and aim to treat the entire spine to alleviate pain, support spinal healing, and enhance mobility.

Through targeted chiropractic adjustments, chiropractors use gentle, low-force techniques to relieve painful symptoms and manipulate the spine around the bulging disc. Depending on the patient's specific condition and any additional issues exacerbating the problem, other treatment modalities may be incorporated.

The bottom line…

If you're suffering from a bulging disc and seeking expert chiropractic care in Perth, our dedicated team is here to help. Experience the benefits of our specialized approach, including pain relief, improved mobility, and long-lasting results. Contact our Perth clinic today to schedule a consultation and begin your journey towards a pain-free life with our trusted chiropractic care.