What is the difference between lumbar disc bulging and protrusion

Lumbar disc herniation and bulging are both very common diseases in daily life. The two have many similarities, and many people even confuse the two. In fact, lumbar disc herniation and bulging have a certain connection, but there are also many differences. First of all, bulging type, protrusion type, extrusion type and free type are the four most common forms of lumbar disc herniation symptoms. Bulging is the displacement of the nucleus pulposus, but if the condition is serious, it may develop into lumbar disc herniation. There are differences in the causes and manifestations of the two, and patients need to choose appropriate treatment methods based on their physical condition and type of symptoms.

1. The relationship between lumbar disc bulging and protrusion:

Lumbar disc herniation is divided into four types according to the condition of the protrusion: bulging type, protrusion type, extrusion type and free type. Intervertebral disc bulge refers to the posterior displacement of the nucleus pulposus in the annulus fibrosus, with the entire disc also protruding backwards, but the kyphosis is smooth and symmetrical, and generally causes no or only mild symptoms. If lumbar disc bulging is not treated in time or bad living habits are not corrected, it can easily lead to the bulging type developing into the protrusion type, aggravating the condition. Clinically, lumbar disc bulging and protrusion are both stages of herniation. Bulging belongs to the early stage, while protrusion is the consequence of further aggravation of bulging.

2. The difference between lumbar disc bulging and protrusion:

Experts remind that patients can judge the difference between lumbar disc herniation and bulging based on the symptoms and causes of the two diseases. Lumbar disc herniation is when the nucleus pulposus has broken through the annulus fibrosus and compressed the nerve roots. Its fibrous bony protrusion is adhered to the surrounding tissues, and the gap becomes narrow, which can compress the nerve roots and cause obvious symptoms. Low back pain, radiating pain in the lower limbs, and even cauda equina symptoms such as urinary incontinence and defecation. Patients with prolapse generally only experience mild symptoms such as lower back pain, which is usually not as severe and has more obvious symptoms as during the protrusion period.

Lumbar disc bulging should not be taken lightly, as it may cause various serious complications. Only active treatment can lead to recovery, otherwise the condition will become more and more serious. Experts remind friends that if you find that you have symptoms of lumbar disc bulging, you must go to the hospital for further examination as soon as possible. If the condition is diagnosed, you must seek treatment early and do not delay it, which will delay the condition.