Treatment may not be needed for bulging discs.

However, several options for treatment, such as physical therapy and steroid injections, exist.

This article explains bulging and herniated discs and how MRI is used to help diagnose them.

A bulging disk

Nancy Ross / Getty Images

Causes

A bulging disc is typically considered to be age-related.

Over time, there are degenerative changes that cause the disc to bulge downward with gravity.

It also can lead to other spinal conditions, includingspinal stenosis(narrowing of the spinal canal).

Its displacement is usually 3 millimeters or less from the normal shape and position of the disc.

They also are different based on the jot down.

You’ll lie still on a table-like platform as your body enters the imaging zone of the machine.

Your healthcare provider will give you specific instructions about MRI preparation.

Bulging Disc Treatment

Many disc bulges don’t require treatment.

In some cases, treatment with a transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) equipment may bring relief.

Surgery may be recommended if conservative interventions don’t work.

Alternative treatments for herniated or bulging discs can include relaxation techniques and othernatural back pain remedies.

Some people may want to tryacupunctureand other complementary or integrated medicine approaches.

A bulging disc is a relatively common finding, even in people who experience no symptoms.

Your healthcare provider can discuss treatment options such as pain medication and physical therapy.

In rare cases, surgery may be needed.

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