The difference between lumbar disc bulge and herniation is whether the annulus fibrosus is completely ruptured and whether there is pressure on the nerves.
Lumbar disc bulge refers to the inner layer of the annulus fibrosus is ruptured, but the outer layer is intact, the nucleus pulposus is limited to bulge towards the spinal canal due to pressure, the surface is smooth, usually manifested as low back pain, and the impact on the nerve function is relatively small, this kind of patients can be relieved or even cured after conservative treatment.
Lumbar disc herniation refers to the complete rupture of the annulus fibrosus, with the nucleus pulposus protruding into the spinal canal, but the posterior longitudinal ligament is still intact, which is more serious than lumbar disc bulging. In addition to lumbar pain, there may be nerve compression symptoms, such as leg pain, lower limb numbness, etc. At this time, if the conservative treatment is ineffective and the symptoms are serious, it is necessary to receive relevant surgical treatment according to the disease.
If the diagnosis of lumbar disc herniation is confirmed, it is recommended to consult a doctor as soon as possible and follow the doctor’s instructions for standardized treatment in order to reduce the adverse effects of the disease.