Bulging disc vs. herniated disc: What’s the difference?

Getting to the source of your back pain isn’t always easy. Two common back issues that often cause confusion are bulging discs and herniated discs. If you’re wondering what the differences are between a bulging disc vs. a herniated disc, you’re in the right place.

While the terms bulging disc and herniated disc are sometimes used interchangeably, they actually refer to two different conditions. Understanding each is key to getting the right care for your symptoms.

Let’s explore what exactly a bulging disc is, how it differs from a herniated disc and what these differences mean for your back pain.

Differences between a bulging disc vs herniated disc

A bulging disc and a herniated disc both represent degenerative changes in the spine along a spectrum. They’re both caused by wear and tear, but how that wear and tear affects your body is the key difference.

A bulging disc is often an early indicator of arthritis. It occurs when the jelly that forms the joint between two bones in the spine is pushed outwards. A bulging disc is rarely symptomatic on its own, but instead represents the underlying arthritis that is present.

A herniated disc occurs when the jelly that forms the joint between two bones in the spine has escaped into the spinal canal or foramen, the opening between each vertebra. A disc herniation may or may not cause symptoms depending on where it’s located.

What does a bulging disc feel like?

A bulging disc can feel like a dull, persistent ache or discomfort in the affected area, often in the lower back or neck. It usually does not involve your legs. A bulging disc might also cause a sense of stiffness or tightness, making it harder to move or bend in certain directions.

In some cases, a bulging disc might cause mild tingling or numbness in the arms or legs if it presses on nearby nerves, but it’s usually not as intense as the pain caused by a herniated disc. Many people with a bulging disc find that the discomfort gets worse after sitting or standing for long periods, while gentle movement might provide some relief.

What does a herniated disc feel like?

A herniated disc often causes a sharper, more intense pain compared to a bulging disc. The discomfort can feel like a shooting or burning sensation that radiates from the spine down to the arms or legs, depending on where the affected disc is located.

This pain can be accompanied by tingling, numbness or a pins-and-needles sensation in the affected limb, and in some cases, muscle weakness might make it harder to grip objects or maintain balance. The pain can be sudden and severe, often worsening with certain movements like bending, twisting or lifting, and after sitting for long periods.

Treatment for bulging disc

Treatment for a bulging disc often starts with conservative, nonsurgical options aimed at relieving pain and promoting healing. Rest and avoiding activities that worsen the pain can be a good first step, allowing the affected area to recover.

Your doctor may recommend the following treatment steps:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers: Ibuprofen or acetaminophen may help reduce inflammation and relieve discomfort.
• Physical therapy: Physical therapy focuses on exercises that strengthen the core, improve flexibility and support the spine. These exercises can relieve pressure on the disc and help prevent future issues.
• Heat and ice therapy: Heat and ice can provide short-term relief for muscle tension and inflammation while you rest.
• Steroid injections: In some cases, your doctor might recommend steroid injections to reduce inflammation around the affected area.
• Surgery: If conservative treatments aren’t effective, more advanced options like spinal decompression therapy or surgery might be considered, although surgery is typically a last resort.

Treatment for herniated disc

Like with a bulging disc, treatment for herniated disc often starts with nonsurgical approaches to reduce pain and inflammation while promoting healing. Rest and activity modification are usually the first steps, so be sure and avoid heavy lifting and movements that worsen the pain.

Treatment options for a herniated disc are typically the same as a bulging disc. Your doctor may recommend the following treatment steps:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers: Ibuprofen or acetaminophen may help reduce inflammation and relieve discomfort.
• Physical therapy: Physical therapy focuses on exercises that strengthen the core, improve flexibility and support the spine. These exercises can relieve pressure on the disc and help prevent future issues.
• Heat and ice therapy: Heat and ice can provide short-term relief for muscle tension and inflammation while you rest.
• Steroid injections: In some cases, your doctor might recommend steroid injections to reduce inflammation around the affected area.
• Surgery: If conservative treatments aren’t effective, more advanced options like spinal decompression therapy or surgery might be considered, although surgery is typically a last resort.

Getting care for bulging or herniated disc

You don’t have to live with back pain from a bulging disc or herniated disc. If back pain is interfering with your quality of life and ability to be active, especially if the pain is worsening, talk to your doctor or explore Virtual Back and Neck Care to learn about what treatments might be a good option for you. Find a doctor near you today to help you move better.