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Causes of Bulging Disks

A bulging disc, also referred to as a ruptured or herniated disc, is a painful condition in which the outer part of the disc, called the capsule, separates from the nucleus, the inner part of the disc. This causes the nucleus to bulge out, pushing against the nerves or the spinal cord. This results in pain, numbness and muscle weakness. A bulging disc has a variety of causes, which can be divided into two main categories: degeneration and trauma.

  1. Disc Degeneration

    • Disc degeneration is often part of the normal aging process. As the body ages, the disc loses some of its water. This reduces its flexibility, which makes injury more likely. The disc starts degenerating naturally after age 30, according to Cedars-Sinai hospital in Los Angeles, which is why bulging discs are most common in those aged 35 to 45. Sometimes, disc degeneration can be caused by other conditions, such as arthritis, osteoporosis or an autoimmune disease.

    Repetitive Strain Injury

    • A repetitive strain injury is an injury caused by long-term stress put on the body by a repetitive motion or activity. Someone with a job that require constant bending or twisting, such as a sales associate at a retail store, is at a higher risk of developing a bulging disc. Repetitive stress injuries cause microscopic trauma to the disc. Eventually, the trauma builds up, weakening the disc, which results in a rupture. Athletes and people who have labor-intensive jobs are commonly found to have disc problems for this reason.

    Major Trauma

    • A major physical trauma, such as a fall or car accident, can force the disc to bulge. The sudden increase in pressure squeezes the nucleus through the capsule. These acute injuries are more likely to cause symptoms, because the herniation is immediate and because the force of the trauma makes it more likely for the nucleus to press against surrounding parts of the spine.

    Preventable Causes

    • Posture can predispose someone to disc problems. Poor posture puts an abnormal amount of pressure on the back, causing the disc to degenerate more quickly. The same is true for excess weight, especially if it is localized in the abdomen. Improper lifting techniques also contribute to increased risk, especially for those who frequently lift heavy objects. Practicing proper posture when sitting and standing, maintaining an ideal body weight, and using correct form when lifting can greatly reduce a person's chances of developing a bulging disc.

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