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What Is A Bulging Disc? When It Is Considered Significant
The term "bulging disc" is often used to describe a disorder where a section of a spinal disc migrates radially, either from a trauma or progressive wear and tear. The medical term is herniated nucleus pulposus. It can be painful and advancing, and can ultimately need surgery. Whenever a patient is given the diagnosis, he definitely is interested in knowing what is a bulging disc and discovers all he can about his options.
The spinal column is made up of twenty-four segments better known as vertebrae. The first seven of the 24, designated cervical, constitute the neck, medically known as the cervical spine. The next twelve are defined thoracic and comprise the mid back, or thoracic spine. The last five are designated lumbar, and comprise the lower back, or lumbar spine. With the exception of the first two cervical vertebrae, a spinal disc joins vertebrae together to provide structure, durability, flexibility and protection from jolts.
The disc is a fibrous joint whose outer part is constructed of a number of concentric layers that have fibers that alternately criss cross. This is termed as the annulus fibrosus. The inner portion is called the nucleus pulposus and has a jelly like consistency that can resist significant hydrostatic pressure. It is the crucial part that helps distribute weight applied to the spine, and is the portion that can push outwards and lead to the specific disk bulge.
Orthopedic specialists use different terms to express the varying level of disc bulging. If the nucleus bulges in a broad manner and the peripheral annulus rings remain unaffected, it is known as a broad based disc bulge. If the bulge is more narrow, it is known as a focalized disc bulge. If the outer annulus fibers have torn, allowing a portion of the bulge to permeate into the spinal canal, it is referred to as a disc prolapse. If the part of the nucleus breaks off the rest of the disc, it is called a disc sequestration. As one can see, the question "what is a bulging disc" may have several answers.
A herniated disc is identified via MRI. The vast majority of disc herniations occur in the lower back and neck. This is due to the fact that they aren't stabilized by the ribcage like the thoracic spine. The neck and lower back are more movable in different planes and therefore go through more forces to their spinal discs. An MRI study will demonstrate the lateral view, or sagittal, that can clearly reveal the extent of disc herniation. Doctors are concerned about the size of the herniation, where it is located, and as to whether it is contacting nerve tissue. The top view, also called coronal will allow the doctor to examine the spaces where nerve roots branch from the spinal cord and go to the extremities (arms and legs). Doctors are concerned if the bulge is closing or partially blocking any of these canals.
So, rather than asking what is a bulging disk one should ask "when is a bulging disk regarded as serious?" Usually, any disc bulge that is greater than five millimieters is viewed as clinically significant. Most people have some amount of disc bulging, which is normal because the disc's role is to support the weight placed on the spine. These natural bulges are not usually felt. Treatment for disc bulges varies from no treatment, to spinal surgery. It all relies on the amount of the herniation and whether it is pressing on nerve tissue.
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