At The Spine Care Center in Manassas, we know how much pain and discomfort can be caused by a bulging disc. We’ve helped hundreds of people successfully manage their symptoms and treat their pain, and we would love to help you, too. You can read more about the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for bulging discs below, and you can get in touch with our office to schedule an appointment through this page.
Don’t wait another day to start your bulging disc treatment!
Between each bone (vertebra) in your spine, there is a disc that acts as a cushion. As you age, these cushions can become stiff and flat. Instead of staying between the vertebra, they can begin to bulge out around the bone.
Bulging discs are different than herniated discs. If you have a herniated disc, the outer layer of cartilage that surrounds the disc is broken. This allows the soft inside of the disc to squeeze out. If you have a bulging disc, the cartilage layer is still intact.
Bulging discs are part of age-related spinal degeneration and can also be caused by injuries to the spine. They are generally more common in the neck or lower back.
You may have a bulging disc without any symptoms. However, if the disc presses on any surrounding nerves, a bulging disc causes symptoms like:
These symptoms may get worse as you twist your back or bend over, as these movements can cause the disc to apply more pressure to the affected nerves.
A spine care expert can determine the cause of your back pain and ensure you receive the right treatment. They will begin by asking you questions about your pain, including questions about where your pain is located, and what, if anything, causes it to worsen or get better.
Your physician will also perform a physical examination of your back. They may also ask you to complete simple movements to see how well your spine functions and if your symptoms are affecting your mobility.
You may need imaging tests like an X-ray or MRI. These tests allow your doctor to examine the discs for bulges or identify other causes of back pain, and they are sometimes necessary for a full diagnosis and treatment plan.
The physicians at The Spine Care Center have helped thousands of patients in the Manassas area find long-term relief from back pain. Their skill and unparalleled expertise have repeatedly earned them recognition as Top Doctors in both Washingtonian and Northern Virginia Magazine.
We begin your care with safe, nonsurgical treatments designed to relieve pain. Your personalized treatment plan may include:
More than 90 percent of our patients find relief without surgery. However, if your pain continues, our experienced spine surgeon, Faisal Siddiqui, MD, offers advanced spine surgery options to remove bulging discs or fuse the spine. Dr. Siddiqui will work closely with you to determine if surgery is right for you, and he is dedicated to ensuring you have the best possible results from your treatment.
Find relief from your bulging disc pain today. Call The Spine Care Center in Manassas or request an appointment using our online contact form.