What is a broad-based disc bulge?

What is a broad-based disc bulge?

By strict definition, a broad-based herniation involves between 25 and 50% of the disc circumference. A focal herniation involves less than 25% of the disc circumference. Herniated discs may take the form of protrusion or extrusion based on the shape of the displaced or herniated material.

How do you treat posterior disc bulge?

Nonsurgical treatment may include:

1. Rest. One to 2 days of bed rest will usually help relieve back and leg pain.
2. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs). Medications such as ibuprofen or naproxen can help relieve pain.
3. Physical therapy.
4. Epidural steroid injection.

What does posterior disc bulge mean?

What Is a Bulging Disc? A bulging disc occurs when the nucleus pulposus—the soft, jelly-like center of the disc that gives the disc shock-absorbing capacities—extends beyond its normal position inside the disc structure, but remains contained within the annulus fibrosus.

Is broad-based disc bulge painful?

A disc bulge might be associated with pain but this will depend a number of things such as if a sudden tear has occurred, if there is inflammation, if the bulge combines with other components to narrow spaces for nerves, if there is damage to the ‘endplates’ that are on the top and bottom of the disc etc.

Can disc bulges go away?

Usually a herniated disc will heal on its own over time. Be patient, and keep following your treatment plan. If your symptoms don’t get better in a few months, you may want to talk to your doctor about surgery.

What causes a broad based disc bulge?

Like a herniated disc, the most common cause of a bulging disc is degenerative disc disease. A bulging disc may also be caused by neck or back strain brought on by repetitive movements, lifting heavy objects, and poor posture.

What are the symptoms of L3 disc bulge?

When the L3 spinal nerve is involved, the following symptoms may occur: Sharp pain , typically felt as a shooting and/or burning feeling that may occur in the thigh and/or inner part of the leg. 3 Abnormal sensations, such as a feeling of pins-and-needles and/or tingling. These symptoms are typically experienced in one leg.

What is a broad disc bulge?

A ‘disc bulge’ is a word used to describe findings seen on a MRI study of the spinal discs . The spinal discs are soft cushions that rest between the bones of the spine, the vertebrae. A normal spinal disc is critical to mobility of the spine. The disc functions to absorb energy in the spine, yet also allow the spine to bend and rotate.

What is diffuse disc bulge?

Diffuse Disc Bulge. A diffuse disc bulge is a medical diagnostic term often substituted for the more commonly seen broad based herniated disc, although technically, there can be some differences.