The difference between lumbar disc herniation and bulging is mainly manifested in the different stages of the disease and different clinical manifestations. 1. Different stages of the disease: both lumbar disc herniation and bulging belong to lumbar disc herniation disease, only the stage of the disease is different. Lumbar disc bulging is the pre-stage of lumbar disc herniation, which may develop into lumbar disc herniation if not treated in time. Lumbar disc herniation belongs to the later stage of the disease. 2. Clinical manifestations are different: lumbar disc bulge is mainly manifested in the lumbar disc area with bulging, but the internal structure is still intact, and there is no partial or total fracture of the annulus fibrosus. Clinical manifestations are mainly mild lumbar pain and lumbago, which can be relieved by rest. Lumbar disc herniation will compress the nerve root, and in serious cases, it may compress the spinal cord, and the clinical manifestations are mainly sciatica, muscular atrophy, scoliosis, and weakness or numbness of the lower limbs. Patients with bulging or herniated lumbar intervertebral discs are advised to seek timely medical attention for a clear diagnosis and targeted treatment under the guidance of a doctor.