Disc Protrusion and Bulging Disk
As a spinal disc deteriorates, it is more susceptible to becoming displaced and may cause disc protrusion or a bulging disc. Discs may project into nearby nerves or the spinal cord and result in debilitating pain. This condition can occur in the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar region of the spine. Symptoms of disc protrusion will vary on the location of the issue and the severity of the protrusion.
At Yashar Neurosurgery, we commit ourselves to providing effective relief from spine and back problems. Dr. Yashar works closely with every patient to develop a treatment plan that matches their unique needs.
What Is a Disc Protrusion or Bulging Disk?
A disc protrusion and a herniated disc are different. However, they both can result in significant pain and discomfort. With a bulging disc, part of the disc is pinched and being pressed up against. The disc annulus is still intact, which is good, but it still is far from ideal. Fortunately, it is much easier to treat than a fully herniated disc. A disc protrusion can still have a significant impact on your quality of life, but we are here to help you treat it.
Symptoms of Disc Protrusion
If you have a disc protrusion or bulging disc, you may experience any of the following symptoms. Many patients report experiencing more than one of these at the same time.
- Chronic Pain – Chronic localized or radiating pain may arise as the nerves, or spinal cord is compressed by the disc protrusion.
- Numbness and Tingling – Numbness and tingling may occur near the site of compression and could extend throughout the entire body.
- Sciatica – Sciatica condition may arise when the compression occurs lumbar region on the sciatic nerve and cause various other symptoms.
- Muscle Complications – As nerves are compressed by this condition, muscles may become stiff or weakened.
Cause of Disc Protrusion
Although this spinal condition does not have a main cause, there are a few leading factors that can contribute to disc protrusion. As aging occurs, disc degeneration naturally occurs and can lead to this condition. While certain factors can make it more likely, it can eventually happen from normal deterioration as well.
Obesity can create unneeded pressure on the spinal cord and cause damaging disc movement. Genetics can also play a significant role in patients developing this condition. A family history of spinal conditions may put patients at a greater risk of developing a spinal condition like disc protrusion. For such patients, we recommend regular visits to spot spinal disc problems before they progress too far.
Injuries from accidents or sports may disrupt the spinal structure and contribute to this condition. While sports can be helpful for your overall health, they do pose spinal risks.
Diagnosis of Disc Protrusion or Bulging Disc
Dr. Yashar is dedicated to helping patients identify and treat their spinal condition. In this effort, he takes the time to perform an exhaustive consultation with each patient. His goal for each patient is to clearly evaluate every aspect of their condition and how to address it. During the initial appointment, Dr. Yashar will conduct several steps toward developing a treatment plan. He will:
- Chronic Pain – Chronic localized or radiating pain may arise as the nerves, or spinal cord is compressed by the disc protrusion.
- Numbness and Tingling – Numbness and tingling may occur near the site of compression and could extend throughout the entire body.
- Sciatica – Sciatica condition may arise when the compression occurs lumbar region on the sciatic nerve and cause various other symptoms.
- Muscle Complications – As nerves are compressed by this condition, muscles may become stiff or weakened.
Tests may include MRIs, CT scans, or X-Ray exams to pinpoint the problem area and develop a customized treatment plan for the patient. Only once he has a full picture of your needs will Dr. Yashar develop a matching solution.
Treatment Options
Initially, Dr. Yashar starts most patient treatment plans with conservative options. Surgery can be effective, but requires commitment, risks, and long recovery periods. Instead, it often proves useful to find initial alternative solutions.
More controlled methods of treatment offered include medications, specialized injections, and hot and cold therapy. If all conservative treatments fall, then Dr. Yashar may recommend our minimally invasive spine surgery. At Yashar Neurosurgery, we utilize the leading state-of-the-art technology to perform all spine procedures.
Dr. Yashar offers specialized decompression procedures to treat disc protrusion and provide relief. Every step of the way, you are kept fully informed and central to the process.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
If you have a bulging disc or disc protrusion, you do not need to continue living in pain. Take the next step in achieving a life that you deserve by scheduling a consultation today. Dr. Yashar and his staff work closely with each patient to find the right solution for you. We look at your previous surgeries and evaluate what is the best path forward for you. We look forward to working with you and helping you move toward a life of comfort and pain-free existence. Call us today to learn more about the treatments and procedures we offer. Fight back against a bulging disc and achieve a better state of being.
I REALIZED THAT DR. YASHAR GENUINELY CARES TO CURE HIS PATIENT, WHICH MAKES HIM AN EXCEPTIONAL DOCTOR IN THE CITY.
