Herniated & Bulging Discs

The spine is a very delicate part of the body and if any part of it is out of its normal position, it can be extremely painful.

Back pain is one of the most frequent reasons why people take sick days at work and herniated and bulging discs are some of the most common types of back injuries people experience. 

Differences between herniated discs and bulging discs

Sometimes, people use the terms “herniated disc” and “bulging disc” interchangeably. While both conditions impact the cushioning discs located between each vertebrae, it’s important to note that these are actually two separate conditions. 

To understand the difference between bulging and herniated discs, it’s important to understand a little bit about the anatomy of the spine. Each of the cushioning discs between the vertebrae consists of two different sections: a hard outer section of cartilage and an inner section of softer cartilage. Under normal circumstances, these discs are about the same circumference of the vertebrae they sit between. 

Bulging discs occur when part of the disc begins to extend beyond the circumference of a vertebra, most typically in the rear and side areas of the disc. This type of injury only impacts the hard outer layer of cartilage. A herniated disc, on the other hand, occurs when the outer layer of cartilage cracks and some of the soft inner cartilage begins to come through that crack. 

Herniated discs can happen anywhere in the back, but they most commonly occur in the lower back. Herniated discs also often referred to as slipped or ruptured discs. 

Between the two types of injuries, herniated discs tend to be more painful because they tend to stick out further and are more likely to put pressure on nearby nerves. Both conditions can be very painful and can cause problems like muscle weakness/numbness and difficulty moving. In some cases, a bulging disc can eventually turn into a herniated disc. 

Causes of bulging & herniated discs

Very often, bulging discs and herniated discs are conditions caused by the natural aging process, but they can also be the result of traumatic accidents in the home, workplace, or elsewhere.

Common causes of herniated disc injuries

Damages in a herniated or bulging disc claim

Any type of back injury can seriously impact your life and herniated and bulging discs are no exception. If you’d like to make a claim for a bulging or herniated disc injury, some types of damages you can collect include:  

• Medical expenses, including future medical expenses
• Pain and suffering
• Lost income
• Physical therapy

Contact a Los Angeles bulging & herniated disc lawyer

If you developed a herniated or bulging disc as a result of an accident, don’t hesitate to get in touch with a lawyer. At The Wallace Firm, you’ll be able to get the help of a lawyer with a track record of success in helping people with herniated and bulging discs. We’re ready to go to bat for you so that you can focus on what’s most important: your recovery. Our team will fight for you to help you get the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for help with your claim.