When a disc is herniated, then it means that it has been bulged, torn, or broken-- this can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in that location. If the disc never broke and was bulging back in November but pressing on your root, then this is likely why the radiologist said it was a herniated disc. The good thing about a bulging disc is that with therapy or with time, it can actually come back into place or at least to the point where it is no longer pressing on a root. This may be why your orthopedic surgeon sees it as a bulging disc (which requires no surgical intervention) and not a herniated disc.
Personally, I'm not a fan of unnecessary spinal surgeries due to their risks-- but if you feel as though you need a second opinion, please do so. You can also ask for massage therapy as a form of treatment even if it is a bulging disc.
Comment Reply
Hi Anon,
When a disc is herniated, then it means that it has been bulged, torn, or broken-- this can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in that location. If the disc never broke and was bulging back in November but pressing on your root, then this is likely why the radiologist said it was a herniated disc. The good thing about a bulging disc is that with therapy or with time, it can actually come back into place or at least to the point where it is no longer pressing on a root. This may be why your orthopedic surgeon sees it as a bulging disc (which requires no surgical intervention) and not a herniated disc.
Personally, I'm not a fan of unnecessary spinal surgeries due to their risks-- but if you feel as though you need a second opinion, please do so. You can also ask for massage therapy as a form of treatment even if it is a bulging disc.
Best Wishes,
Rosa
January 25, 2012 - 6:20amThis Comment
Reply