BULGING DISC TREATMENT SYDNEY
Infinite Health offers effective bulging disc treatment for pain relief and restoring the natural movement of the spine.
LOWER BACK BULGING DISC (HERNIATION / PROTRUSION)
The spinal discs functions as the back’s ‘shock absorbers’. They also allow for spinal movement, and also provide the space for where the spinal nerves exit the spinal column (down to other areas of the body).
A bulging disc is a very common condition in the spine (especially as we age). This injury presents when the annulus (see image) becomes damaged or weakened, where the nucleus pulposus then moves beyond its normal position inside the disc (but does not exist nor protrude out of the disc).
When the outer layer of the disc is damaged and the nucleus escapes from within the disc, this is what we call a herniated disc.
WHAT CAUSES A BULGING DISC
Repetitive trauma: poor spinal posture or repetitive heavy lifting with a poor technique can cause degeneration, or weakening to the disc and therefore cause a bulge. These are typically classed as more chronic conditions, which have strong links to poor core spinal stability muscles, poor spinal flexibility, or health conditions like mobility or obesity.
Acute trauma or injury: can cause a bulge if there is a sudden increase in pressure on the disc, which can typically result in tears to the annulus. Acute trauma, or a sudden force/load on the disc can include a car accident, picking up heavy boxes from the ground or poor technique when lifting heavy weights in the gym.
Spinal/disc degeneration: whilst degenerative changes are expected with the ageing individual, if you have pre~existing issues with posture, spinal flexibility and strength, this could speed up the degenerative process and thus weaken the discs, potentially resulting in a bulge.
SYMPTOMS OF BULGING DISC
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Sharp pain at the level of the disc bulge. Movement typically will make the pain more acute.
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Muscular tightness & spasms
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Pins and needles
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Numbness or weakness in the peripheral limbs (lower body)
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If you have a severe disc herniation, you could experience bowel and bladder control issues.
WHAT WILL MAKE THE PAIN WORSE?
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Poor posture will result in increased pressure on the affected disc.
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Forward bending, or ‘spinal flexion’, is typically a provocative movement for a bulging disc as the disc commonly pushes backwards onto the spinal nerves as you bend forward.
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Coughing or sneezing can cause a sudden increase in intra-abdominal pressure, which places pressure on the bulging disc.
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Lifting, whether in the gym or during daily chores, puts more strain on the spine and the bulging disc, causing more discomfort.
BULGING DISC
HERNIATED DISC
HOW BULGING DISC TREATMENT WORKS
Bulging disc treatment starts with an initial physical assessment - your physiotherapist will assess the basic movement and integrity of your spine to pinpoint the location of the affected disc. Your physiotherapist will then create a tailored exercise program focused on improving the mobility and strength of the injured disc.
If the bulge is severe, we may refer you for medical imaging (typically an MRI) to determine the exact location of the disc bulge. Following the results, we will advise conservative treatment for the spinal injury.
It is possible to fully recover from a bulging disc condition with effective treatment (depending on the severity of your condition). With the help of our physiotherapists, most patients return to full health within 6-10 weeks.
For best results, book a consultation with our Sydney physios as early as possible to start bulging disc treatment at our Sydney CBD, Chatswood, North Sydney, Mosman, and Hornsby clinics.
BULGING DISC PHYSIOTHERAPY TREATMENT
Here at Infinite Health, our AHPRA-accredited physiotherapists will guide you through the healing process of resuming pain-free activities and, most importantly, reducing the risk of recurrence in the future.
Bulging disc treatment helps to determine the cause of your back pain and effectively treat and prevent reoccurrence. Your physiotherapist will encourage you to continue to stay active and engage in your normal activities while avoiding any aggravating symptoms.
Don’t wait to seek specialised treatment for a bulging disc — if the pain has not eased in a few days or if you have been diagnosed with a chronic condition, contact us to book an appointment.
Every lower back treatment plan is different and specific to each individual but should have the following aims and checkpoints.
Phase 1 - Back pain relief, healing and protection. Hands on treatment and advice. Restoring normal ranges of motion and strength with basic exercises.
Phase 2 - Restoring full function and resuming normal activities along with functional strengthening exercises.
Phase 3 - Preventing disc bulging or related spinal issues from recurring.
Our physiotherapists will also educate and help you understand your spine so that you can self-manage your back issues. This will ultimately help you learn how to keep your lower back healthy and prevent recurrence in the long term.
For expert help and treatment visit one of our clinics or sign up for one of our online services. We'd love to help!