What causes bulging discs?
A number of things can cause bulging discs, ranging from degenerative spinal diseases to age. Some of the potential causes are within control of the individual, while others are not very easy to prevent, although taking good care of the body and keeping an eye on spinal health can minimize the risk of developing a bulging disc. In the event that a bulging disc does occur, a doctor should be consulted to discuss treatment options, as spinal conditions like bulging discs can become problematic if they are ignored. Doctors differentiate between bulging discs and herniated discs, but lay people often use the terms interchangeably. In both cases, the discs of soft material which normally cushion the vertebrae become displaced, leading to a protrusion of the disc from the spine. Herniated discs are characterized by a rupture of the tough outer membrane, which causes the soft material inside to bulge out, while bulging discs remain contained, but they are at risk for herniation. Some people h
Bulging discs can result from several causes. Often the condition occurs simply because aging deteriorates the disc. Repetitive movements can also be a cause, as can strenuous lifting and twisting. Bulging can be caused by spinal bone spurs pushing out on the disc, collapsed space between vertebrae, and other degenerative conditions.
