A bulging disc might be the cause of your neck, shoulder, or back pain. Acting like cushions sandwiched between your vertebrae, discs absorb shock in the spine, hold the column together, and aid mobility. Over time, the pads can wear down or dislodge, extending into the spinal canal and causing discomfort. To help you find relief, here’s more information on how a bulging disc develops and what you can do to correct the problem. 

What’s a Bulging Disk?

A spinal disc contains a hard outer layer of cartilage wrapped around a softer inner layer. When the connective tissue becomes dry, it gets stiff. The outer cartilage bulges out of position as a result. A bulge can transform into a herniated disc, which happens when the outer cartilage cracks and the inner substance begins to stick out. Although disc problems often come with age, obesity, poor posture, injuries, and weightlifting can also damage the area.  

How Do I Know if I Have One?

Bulging discs tend to develop gradually, which means you might not notice a problem at first. The location of the bulge or herniation also contributes to the level of discomfort you experience. If it doesn’t touch a nerve, you might notice dull aching in the affected area. If the disc presses on a nerve, it’s common to feel weakness, pain, and numbness.

What Are My Treatment Options?

For short-term pain relief, people often take anti-inflammatory drugs or steroid injections. A physician might also recommend incorporating massage therapy into your long-term pain management and treatment plan. Massage therapists manipulate tight muscles in the lumbar region to loosen them. This helps reduce vertebrae compression on the affected discs, providing you relief from your symptoms.

If you believe you have a bulging disc, contact The Healing Center in Anchorage, AK. For over 30 years, these professionals have been providing patients with thorough examinations and massage treatment to relax tense muscles for pain relief. They will also recommend stretches to do between sessions to improve your quality of life. Visit the center online to learn more about massage therapy. To schedule an appointment, call (907) 561-7041.