I wonder if a herniated disk is the same as a bulge?

A herniation means that the center of the disc (nucleus pulposus) has been breeched beyond the physiological means of the thick cartilagenous ring that makes up the boarder of the disc (the annulous fibrosis), but it still remains intact. A buldge, however, has not weakend the wall of the annulous fibrosis, but instead has pushed it out (or bluged it). An extrusion would be one step beyond a herniation where the wall no longer remains intact and the nucleous pulposus has leaked out into the epidural space.

Use this analogy...have you ever seen a hose that has been closed for hours, but the water is still on? A bulge would be where the hose has buldged out because of pressure from the water. A hernation would be where the inner casing may have poked through, but there is no water leaking. An extrusion would be where the hose has burst.

depends on how large the bulge is. A very small bulge is not, but a moderate to large bulge is.

No, herniated usually means it is sticking out worse than a bulge.

While time and exercise may strengthen your back so that both subside, it will take longer for a herniation to recover, than a bulge.

Tags

　　Hip Disorders 　　Hip Injuries 　　Hidradenitis Suppurativa 　　Herpes Zoster 　　Herpes Simplex 　　Heroin 　　Herniated Disk 　　Hernia 　　Herbicides 　　Herbal Medicine 　　Hepatoblastoma 　　Hepatitis 　　Hemorrhoids

Related information

Do I have a herniated disk in my lower back?

Only an X-ray or MRI can detect if you actually have a herniated disk. You should probably go to the doctor to make sure there isn't a more serious problem at hand. If the MD doesn't find...

Should you have surgury for herniated disk?/?

Depends on how bad it hurts now. Have you exhausted all other options, like therapy? If your pain is manageable right now then wait. Even with the best spinal/neuro surgeon your taking a risk. What...

I was diagnosed with a herniated disk. How can I permanently cure this ailment? The pain is so intense.?

Herniated discs will not be corrected with surgery or fruit juice. The disc is not the problem. A herniated disc is a symptom, not the cause. Believe it or not, herniated discs are most often a ...

Has anyone else had a herniated disk before?

Yes. I had two at the same time in the lower back. After weighing all the options I went with surgery. I got two opinions and both were the same - physical therapy will not cure the problem. Wh...

Looks like I may have herniated disk. Whole private area is numb. Any ideas on how to regain feeling in area?

...

How to get rid of herniated disk pain.?

I had a severe herniated disk (6mm) in my back at L5 S1 that was so debilitating I was in constant agony and could barely walk or stand. I felt like I was 80 years old but I'm in my 30's....

Should i have back surgery for herniated disk i am obese, diabetic, i cannot afford a chirpractor.?

Did it, done it, accident in 2001, two back surgeries and they want to do a third with them replacing the disc and some of the spine with a rod, nope, not comfortable with that. I did the pain man...

Has anyone else suffered from a herniated disk?

I have two herniated discs from a previous car accident....and let me tell ya..i soooooo feel your pain! There isnt a whole lot you can do besides cortizon shots and find some pill happy doctor to...