Is a disc bulge something to be concerned about?

A disc bulge is the first step towards a herniated disc, which is a more serious problem, according to chiropractor Kenneth D. Erickson. A disc bulge may not require surgery, but DePuy Synthes Spine recommends seeking treatment.

Treatment for a disc bulge includes pain medication, physical therapy or simply waiting for symptoms to subside, according to DePuy Synthes Spine. Symptoms can subside in several weeks or months. If symptoms get worse, surgery may be required. Surgical treatment is used to decompress the spinal cord or nerves. A disc bulge can cause back or neck pain, numbness, tingling, burning, sharp pain or weakness in a variety of limbs depending on where the bulging disc is located on the spine.