When you are dealing with pain in the back that is related to the spine, it can be debilitating. No matter what the type of pain it is or how severe it may be, it has the ability to interfere with many aspects of your life. This means that when you are dealing with an issue related to your spine, you need to have it diagnosed right away, but also diagnosed accurately. Bulging discs and herniated discs are two common types of spine issues, but they are not one in the same. This means that you need to know what makes a bulging disc different from a herniated disc. This is the only way to treat the issue properly and ensure that you have real relief. Here are some of the differences between a bulging disc and a herniated disc.
What Are Discs?
It is important to note that there are discs within the spine. These discs that can be found in the spine are filled with sacs that contain liquid. These discs are designed to provide support and cushioning. This support is supposed to help the vertebrae of the spine. However, there can be issues that arise with these discs when they become bulging or herniated.
Bulging or Herniated
A bulging disc occurs when the disc actually comes out of place. This means that when the sac filled with liquid moves out of place, it is classified as a bulging disc. A herniated disc is different from a bulging disc, because a herniated disc is one that has broken. This means that when the sac filled with liquid bursts, it is classified as a herniated disc. Both of these issues result in the vertebrae not having proper support, but a bulging disc is not the same as a herniated disc. Both are serious issues, but since a herniated disc does break completely, it is a bit more severe in nature.
Pain
The type of pain that you experience from a bulging disc or a herniated disc is similar. This is one of the main reasons why people commonly mistake one for the other. However, it is normal that if you are dealing with a herniated disc for the pain to be a bit more severe and longer lasting. At the first sign of pain in your spine, you need to have the issue evaluated to determine if it is a herniated disc or a bulging disc.
