What is a Bulging Disc?
The most common and unavoidable bulging disc risk is disc deterioration brought on by the normal aging process of the spine. The Arthritis Foundation reports that a bulging disc typically develops in the upper or lower spine due to mobility.
While age is unavoidable, there are several other bulging disc risk factors that can lead to symptoms of back pain and limited mobility within the spine. Understanding these risk factors can help you possibly improve your overall spine health and may postpone the development.
Common Bulging Disc Risk Factors
A bulging disc will most commonly develop in the lumbar spine because this portion of the spine is responsible for the body’s weight and movement. There is constant pressure on the discs between the vertebrae, which leaves the discs susceptible to deterioration and damage.
Similarly, the cervical spine is responsible for supporting the weight and movement of the head. When you consider how many times a day we move our heads, it is easy to understand why these discs can wear down under the constant rotation of the cervical vertebrae.
Some of the bulging disc risk factors that can expedite the development of the condition include:
- Age
- Arthritis of the spine
- Improper lifting techniques
- Excessive back and neck strain
- Height
- Excessive weight gain
- An unhealthy diet
- Poor posture
- Inactivity
- Smoking
- Dehydration
Consider these risk factors as you make your daily lifestyle choices. Making small changes like eating healthy and exercising regularly can have a lasting impact on your overall spine health.
Bulging Disc Treatment
Sometimes, bulging disc risk factors cannot be avoided, and one may develop. If this happens, schedule an appointment with your doctor to begin a course of conservative bulging disc treatments for back pain relief.
Conservative bulging disc treatments include:
- Pain medication
- Weight loss
- Physical therapy
- Low-impact exercise
- Stretching and yoga
- Corticosteroid injections
Many patients will find back pain relief from these therapies after several months of consistent treatment. However, if chronic back pain continues after several months, surgery may be an option.
If you have been recommended for spine surgery, contact BEST Health System. Our spine surgeons perform minimally invasive procedures on an outpatient basis with far less disruption and a much shorter recovery than traditional open spine surgery.
BEST Health System
BEST Health System specializes in minimally invasive spine surgery that is a safer and effective alternative to traditional open back procedures and offers many benefits, including less risk of infection and no lengthy recovery. For more information on how BEST can help you find relief from chronic neck and back pain, contact us today.
