What Is the Difference Between a Disc Protrusion & a Bulging Disc?

A bulging disc occurs when the jelly-like nucleus inside spinal cartilage (disc) bulges beyond the space it normally occupies. A protruding or herniated disc usually bulges outside of the space between vertebrae and often bursts, per the staff at Mayoclinic.com.

Identification

• A bulging disc is more common than a disc protrusion or herniated disc. The pain is usually more severe with the latter condition. However, one should treat either condition because both can lead to more severe cartilage and spinal problems.

Types of Symptoms

• A protruding or herniated disc tends to cause a sharper pain than a bulging disc. Protruding discs are also more likely to cause muscle weakness, numbness in the limbs or radiating pain such as sciatica.

Other Types of Symptoms

• Because disk protrusions exert more force on spinal nerves, a person is more likely to experience more serious symptoms such as dizziness, chest pain and even bladder or bowel control problems.

Effects of Treatment

• Both conditions can be treated with rest, immobilization, ice, heat, medication and exercise. The key is getting the initial inflammation under control. While resting, ice should be used the first few days to restrict blood flow. After that, use heat and exercise to increase blood flow, which carries oxygen and nutrients for healing.

Time Frame

• It can take several months to get over a protruding disc. Bulging discs usually heal faster because there is less structural damage to the disc.