Bulging Discs And Back Pain Issues

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The spinal column is punctuated by small discs located between each of the vertebrae running the length of the spine.  They are hard on the outside with a gelatinous interior, and they serve as cushions between the spinal bones, keeping the spine flexible and protecting spinal nerves and the spinal cord. 

However, the discs can react to outside stimuli, be it from normal wear and tear of aging, to a sudden trauma to the spine as the result of a hard fall or automobile accident.  The disc may swell outside its normal radius, pushing either outside the spinal canal, or inside where it puts undue pressure on nerve endings, causing pain, numbness, or tingling.

Bulging discs may occur in the neck, upper back, or lower back; however they tend to be most common in the lower back since it bears the brunt of most of the force exerted on the back and back muscles on a day to day basis. 

Not all bulging discs necessarily cause pain; a sizeable number of them are discovered through X-rays for completely different issues.  Many of them will stabilize and heal on their own over a period of a month or so.  Many more may be successfully treated through conservative, non-invasive procedures such as exercise, over the counter painkillers, chiropractic care, and physical therapy.

If the pain persists, and all other avenues of treatment have failed, your physician may recommend surgery.   This only applies to about 10% of those suffering from bulging discs.  The surgery is quite safe, and most people are able to return to their normal routine within a few days.

Never underestimate the power of good exercise.  It not only strengthens the muscles of the stomach and back, but provides a measure of protection against future injury.

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