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 Kayal Orthopaedic Center, PC, founded by NJ spinal surgeon Robert A. Kayal, provides New Jersey patients with expertise in the surgical and non-surgical treatment of spinal disorders. One common type of spinal disorder is a bulging disc. Discs are small, rubbery cushions that act as spinal shock absorbers and help to maintain spinal flexibility. When the discs become damaged, they may bulge and cause pain or a “pins and needles” feeling. Disc conditions may occur at the neck, mid-back or lumbar spine, although bulging discs are most common in the lower back. The spine physicians at Kayal Orthopaedic Center diagnose and treat hundreds of bulging discs each year, expertly managing this condition anywhere along the spine.
What is a Bulging Disc?
The general population often confuses bulging discs and herniated discs, in part because both conditions involve a protrusion from a disc. A herniated disc describes a condition where a disc has been cracked and the gel inside is forced out through the opening, causing a protrusion. A bulging disc occurs when the hard, outer layer of cartilage extends outside the space it should normally occupy. Bulging discs are more common than herniated discs, and the most reported symptom is mild to severe pain. Other symptoms include numbness, tingling, and weakness. These symptoms can be felt in the area of the disc, or in the buttocks, legs and other areas if nerves are involved in the damage.
There are a number of bulging disc causes. First, bulging discs are considered an expected part of the aging process. As people age, their spinal stability decreases—which increases the chance of sustaining a bulging disc. Obesity and lack of exercise are also contributing factors, as extra weight and weakened muscles place added strain on the spine. Bulging discs can also result from trauma, such as sports injuries or car accidents.
Bulging Disc Treatments
The spine physicians at Kayal Orthopaedic Center, PC provide expert treatment for bulging discs. NJ spine specialists diagnose the problem through physical examinations and imaging tests, such as MRIs, x-rays, and CT scans. Once a diagnosis has been made, Dr. Kayal and his team determine the best treatment plan for the patient, considering the spinal level of the herniated disc(s), and the patient’s age and overall physical condition. In most cases, bulging discs will heal with conservative treatments such as rest, anti-inflammatory medications and targeted exercises. In more severe cases, however, surgical intervention may be needed to relieve the symptoms of a bulging disc.
With offices conveniently located in Franklin Lakes and Ridgewood, the NJ board-certified orthopedic surgeons at Kayal Orthopaedic Center, PC treat patients with bulging discs from Hudson County, Bergen County, Passaic County, and Essex County. Learn more about bulging discs and other spinal disorders by visiting our patient education center, or call our NJ orthopedic team to schedule a spine consultation.
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