Diagnosis of Bulging Discs

The term bulging disc signifies an intervertebral spacer which is swollen in a particular way, often defined by many of the following terms: diffuse, broad based, focal, central, paramedian or anterior.

While it is not important to understand the exact differences in these diagnostic names, it is crucial to understand the process of identifying bulges and how the findings are used to substantiate back and neck pain in many cases.

Diagnosis of Bulging Discs / Antiquated Notions

Back in the day, there was little objective spinal research and almost any abnormality was deemed to be the definitive grounds for causing back pain. Luckily, we have come a long way since then.

Modern Diagnosis of Bulging Discs

Doctors find them daily on routine diagnostic testing in patients who have no back pain whatsoever. This is medical fact.

Now, symptoms are based on neurological effects of herniations involving spinal stenosis, foraminal stenosis or chemical radiculitis. While this is certainly a step in the right direction, it still does not prevent misdiagnosis of many pinched nerve conditions and it certainly does not prevent less ethical, or enlightened, care providers from taking advantage of naïve patients who will believe that ANY disc abnormality is still grounds for pain.

Diagnosis of Bulging Discs Summary

Some may be problematic and these can usually be successfully identified and treated by a qualified spinal neurologist.

I always recommend that patients understand their diagnostic findings and learn the facts about herniated discs in order to prevent themselves from becoming yet another in the countless millions who are improperly managed in the dorsalgia sector each year.

I hope that this website will help you to better understand your diagnosed condition and spark some topics of conversation between you and your physician.