A prolapsed disc and a bulging disc are both types of disc herniation that can occur in the spine, but there are some key differences between the two conditions.
A bulging disc happens when the outer layer of the disc weakens and bulges outwards, putting pressure on the surrounding nerves. This can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the affected area. A prolapsed disc, on the other hand, occurs when the inner core of the disc ruptures through the outer layer and leaks out into the spinal canal. This can lead to more severe symptoms, such as intense pain, difficulty moving, and even loss of bladder or bowel control.
In terms of treatment, bulging discs can often be managed with conservative methods such as physical therapy, medications, and injections. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the bulging portion of the disc. Prolapsed discs may also be treated with conservative measures, but surgery is usually recommended for more severe cases to remove the leaked disc material and relieve pressure on the nerves.
In summary, the main difference between a prolapsed disc and a bulging disc lies in the extent of the damage to the disc and the severity of the symptoms. Treatment options may vary depending on the specific condition and its impact on the patient’s quality of life.
How to tell the difference between a bulging disc and a herniated disc?
Unlike a herniated disc, when the nucleus breaks through the annulus, a bulging disc protrudes outward but the outer layers of the annulus remains intact.
Is slipped disc and bulging disc the same?
A “slipped disc” can be a bulged discbulged discA disc protrusion is a medical condition that can occur in some vertebrates, including humans, in which the outermost layers of the anulus fibrosus of the intervertebral discs of the spine are intact but bulge when one or more of the discs are under pressure.https://en.wikipedia.org › wiki › Disc_protrusionDisc protrusion – Wikipedia, or a herniated disc, but what that describes is when the disc starts to degenerate, it no longer can perform that function of a ligament, which is to hold the bones on top of each other in a uniform manner.
How do you tell if a disc is bulging or herniated?
Only with the help of a spine surgeon can you confirm whether or not you have a bulged or herniated disc. Though other types of imaging like X-rays can rule out other injuries, an MRI can help an expert diagnose the most likely cause of your pain.
Which is worse slipped disc or bulging disc?
Herniated disks also are called ruptured disks or slipped disks. The whole disk does not rupture or slip. Only the small area of the crack is affected. Compared with a bulging disk, a herniated disk is more likely to cause pain.3 days ago
