Michimich.com - Pivotal Chiropractic Explains the Difference Between Bulging and Herniated Discs

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ANN ARBOR, Mich. - Michimich -- What's the difference between bulging and herniated discs?

How do these conditions affect your spine?

Like any complex system, your spine is prone to wear and tear. Two common conditions that can affect the discs in your spine are disc bulges and disc herniations. These terms may sound similar, but they are very different conditions.

The Discs: Our Spinal Cushions
Between each vertebra sits a disc. These discs act as shock absorbers, providing cushioning and flexibility to the spine. Each disc has a tough outer shell and a soft, jelly-like center.

Bulging Disc: When the Tire Loses Air
Imagine a car tire. A bulging disc is like a tire that's lost some air. The disc retains its shape, but the outer layer weakens and bulges outward. This bulging can press on nearby nerves, causing pain. Bulging discs often go unnoticed, especially if they don't affect your nerves.

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Herniated Disc: When the Filling Spills Out
A herniated disc is more severe than a bulge. Here, the outer layer tears or ruptures, allowing the soft center to protrude outward. This leakage can put significant pressure on spinal nerves, which can lead to pain, numbness, and weakness that radiates along the path of the affected nerve.

Understanding the Symptoms
Both bulging and herniated discs can cause pain, but the severity and location can differ. Bulging discs might cause a dull ache, while herniated discs can produce sharp, radiating pain. Herniated discs are also more likely to cause weakness, numbness, and tingling in the arms or legs, depending on the location of the herniation.

Read the full article on Pivotal Chiropractic's website: https://www.pivotalchiropractic.com/bulging-disc-vs-herniated-disc-understanding-the-difference-in-your-spine/

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Get Help for Bulging Discs in Ann Arbor

Chiropractic care can go a long way towards helping you recover from spinal issues. Pivotal Chiropractic can help provide treatment for disc herniations and bulging discs in Ann Arbor. To reach out with questions or schedule an appointment, call (734) 221-0362 or submit a contact form here: https://www.pivotalchiropractic.com/contact-us/

About Pivotal Chiropractic: The sooner neck pain is treated, the better. Don't wait to get relief – contact Dr. Gessert today! You don't have to live your life in pain. We can help you get back to the activities you love. Contact Dr. Gessert for a complimentary consultation today to see if chiropractic care is the right solution for your neck pain.