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Are There Restrictions With a Bulging Disc?

Bulging discs are common and in most cases will not cause any pain. The best means of avoiding a bulging disc is consistent exercise and flexibility training.

  1. Definition

    • According to Jerry W. Swanson, MD, "A bulging disk simply extends outside the space it should normally occupy."

    Causes

    • Causes of bulging discs include aging, spine injuries and arthritis.

    Symptoms

    • While most bulging discs do not cause any pain, if the bulging is the result of an injury there may be some pain associated with early movements.

    Treatment

    • The pain of a bulging disc typically diminishes with two days of bed rest and a slow start when the patient begins moving again. If need be, patients are sent to a physical therapist for education on ways to reduce pain and pressure.

    Restrictions

    • Restrictions typically include avoiding heavy lifting without a proper brace and slowly rebuilding activity levels after the injury.

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