Expert Advice   Print Version Q. What is the difference between a bulging disc and a herniated disc? A. A disc begins to bulge when the nucleus pulposus in the center of the disc pushes out against the surrounding annulus fibrosis, much like air being blown into a balloon. In a bulging disc, the nucleus stays contained within the annulus. Bulging discs are common and will even be seen on MRI in a high percentage of people who do not have pain. A bulging disc causes problems when it balloons into the space in the spinal canal. Think of a herniated disc like a balloon that actually pops. The disc herniates when the soft, inner nucleus actually squeezes its way through the annulus and ruptures out of the disc--like a popped balloon. Pain symptoms can be felt from the tear in the annular ligament, pressure of the disc material against the nerves, and from the inflammation caused by the nucleus material that is squeezed out of the disc. If there is pressure on a nerve, symptoms of numbness and weakness may also be noticed in the areas supplied by the nerve. Print Version		Anatomy and Function of the Spine Spondylolysis and Spondylolisthesis Diagnostic Tests for Spine Problems Q. When can I play golf, ride a bike, or go hiking after spine surgery? A. It depends on the type and location of your surgery. A micro-discectomy… Clicking on any of the links will take you to a Web site to which this Privacy Policy does not apply. You are solely responsible for your interactions with such Web sites. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons

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