Bulging Disc Treatment Explained: Symptoms, Causes, and Solutions

This is the most common symptom, which can range from mild to severe. The pain may be localized to the area of the bulging disc or, if the disc is pressing on a nerve, it can radiate along the nerve pathway. For example, a bulging disc in the lower back may cause pain that radiates down the leg, known as sciatica.

If the bulging disc is in the lumbar (lower back) region and pressing on nerves that affect leg function, individuals may experience difficulty walking or changes in their gait.

As a bulging disc is often a sign of disc degeneration, individuals might also experience symptoms associated with this broader condition, such as stiffness, reduced flexibility in the spine, and pain that worsens with movements like bending or twisting.

The following are surgical procedures that can be used to treat bulging discs:

Deuk Laser Disc Repair

Deuk Laser Disc Repair is a type of endoscopic spine surgery conducted in a state-of-the-art outpatient surgery center under sedation, allowing the patient to remain comfortable. This technique does not compromise or weaken the health and integrity of the spine.

With over 15 years of experience performing this procedure and more than 2000 patients treated, there has been a remarkable 99.6% success rate without any complications.

How Deuk Laser Disk Repair Functions

Deuk Laser Disc Repair involves making a very small incision, barely a quarter-inch long. A cylindrical instrument known as a dilator is inserted into this tiny opening to gently separate the muscles, creating a pathway for performing the surgery endoscopically. 

The dilator’s end is inserted into the affected disc via the tear in the annulus where the herniation begins. A retractor tube is placed over the dilator and positioned carefully within the painful disc. The entirety of the Deuk Laser Disc Repair surgery takes place within this narrow tube.

An endoscopic camera is placed into the tubular retractor, enabling the surgeon to accurately direct the laser inside each symptomatic disc. This method ensures that bones and surrounding tissues remain unharmed, unlike traditional spinal fusion, microdiscectomy, and artificial disc procedures.

The Holmium YAG laser, utilized in the Deuk Laser Disc Repair, is precisely controlled with millimeter accuracy under endoscopic view to excise only the painful, inflamed tissue from the disc. The laser specifically targets and removes the damaged disc material responsible for the pain.

After the laser has eliminated the inflamed, painful sections of the annular tear and the herniated nucleus pulposus, the endoscope and tubular retractor are withdrawn, leaving a small incision in the skin, which is sealed with a single stitch and a band-aid.

The complete Deuk Laser Disc Repair surgery lasts about one hour, with the patient spending approximately 45 to 60 minutes in recovery before being discharged to return home. No hospitalization is required, thus avoiding the risks associated with hospital-based surgeries.

Moreover, Deuk Laser Disc Repair maintains normal movement and flexibility of the disc and joint. This endoscopic procedure does not involve fusion, metal implants, or biological materials added to the spine, making it a completely natural process that allows the body to heal the herniated or bulging disc on its own.

Post-surgery, patients of Deuk Laser Disc Repair can return home and quickly resume daily activities without pain, benefitting from a rapid recovery. Notably, there is no need for opioids or strong narcotic painkillers after surgery.

In contrast to open spine surgeries like microdiscectomy, laminectomy, artificial disc replacement, and fusion, which cause considerable internal trauma and severe postoperative pain requiring painkiller use for extended periods, Deuk Laser Disc Repair avoids these issues.

Spinal Fusion

Spinal fusion surgery can be performed using general or local anesthesia, depending on the situation and surgical requirements.

Spinal fusion can be broken down into three elements which involve:

• Making an Incision: The surgeon creates an incision to access the vertebrae that are to be fused. The placement of the incision is not necessarily directly over the vertebrae but is determined based on the specific location of the vertebrae and the access needed by the surgeon.
• Preparing the Bone Graft: A bone graft is essential for fusing the vertebrae. This graft can be obtained from the patient’s hip during the surgery, a cadaver bone, or manufactured beforehand. When using the patient’s bone, the surgeon makes an incision, usually at the pelvis, and removes a small piece of bone from the hip to use as the graft. If a synthetic option is chosen, it is inserted between the vertebrae to form the basis for the graft.
• Fusing the Vertebrae: The final step involves the permanent fusion of the vertebrae. The surgeon places the bone graft between the vertebrae during the operation. To ensure the bone graft heals properly, medical-grade titanium rods and screws are utilized. The graft then takes 3-6 months to fully fuse the vertebrae into a single, solid bone.

Discectomy

There are two types of discectomy surgery available to patients: an open discectomy or a microdiscectomy. 

The key difference is that an open discectomy involves:

• A larger incision.
• The removal of more normal spinal bone and ligaments.
• Results in more scar tissue and pain than what is typically experienced with a microdiscectomy.

This method increases the potential risk of nerve damage to the adjacent nerves of the vertebrae. Furthermore, the spinal column may become unstable from the removal of bones, ligaments, and facet joints.

 In these situations, a spinal fusion is performed after the discectomy to reestablish stability in the spinal column, slightly lengthening the patient’s recovery time.

For individuals dealing with a bulging disc, non-surgical treatment options can provide significant relief and are often the first line of approach in managing symptoms. These treatments aim to reduce pain, improve function, and promote healing, potentially avoiding the need for surgery. 

Medication

Over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. In more severe cases, stronger medications, such as muscle relaxants or prescription-strength anti-inflammatories, may be recommended.

Physical therapy

A tailored physical therapy program can strengthen the muscles around the spine, increase flexibility, and reduce the pressure on the affected disc. Physical therapists may also employ techniques such as traction, massage, and ultrasound to help relieve symptoms.

Epidural Injection

Epidural injection can provide temporary relief by reducing inflammation and pain in the affected area. This option is often considered when other treatments have not provided adequate relief.

The following are signs bulging disc is getting worse:

• Increased pain that becomes more constant and severe
• Numbness or tingling extending to other parts of the body
• Weakness in the muscles, potentially leading to difficulty standing or walking
• Loss of bladder or bowel control (in severe cases, indicating cauda equina syndrome)

Surgery might be considered when:

• Conservative treatments (like physical therapy, medication, and epidural injections) have failed to relieve symptoms
• Symptoms have persisted for an extended period, typically several months
• The bulging disc causes significant pain, weakness, or neurological deficits

• Follow your neck or back surgeon’s instructions regarding medication adjustments and pre-surgery fasting
• Arrange for help at home post-surgery, as your mobility will be temporarily limited
• Prepare your home for post-surgery recovery, ensuring necessary items are within easy reach without bending or lifting

Here’s what you need to expect after a bulging disc surgery: 

• Initial recovery typically involves rest and managing pain with medications
• Physical therapy will be crucial for regaining strength and mobility
• Depending on the surgery full recovery can vary, with many patients seeing improvement within weeks, but complete healing may take several months. With procedures such as Deuk Laser Disc Repair, recovery takes about 45 to 60 minutes.

Success rates for bulging disc surgery vary depending on the specific procedure, patient health, and severity of the disc bulge. For surgical procedures such as Deuk Laser Disc Repair, the success rate is 99.6% with 0 complications.