What are bulging and herniated discs?

Herniated discs can lead to chronic pain, but chiropractic adjustment treatments may provide relief. Discs serve as cushions between the vertebrae in your spine, comprising a sturdy outer layer that encases softer cartilage at the core. You can envision them as tiny jelly doughnuts that snugly fit between your vertebrae.

Over time, discs begin to exhibit signs of deterioration. They can dry out, and the cartilage within becomes more rigid. These changes may cause the outer layer of the disc to bulge uniformly around its circumference, resembling a hamburger that's too big for its bun.

A bulging disc doesn't always affect the whole perimeter of the disc; however, it typically involves at least a quarter, if not more, of the circumference. Only the outer layer of resilient cartilage is engaged.

In contrast, a herniated disc occurs when a tear in the durable outer layer of cartilage allows some of the softer inner cartilage to protrude beyond the disc. Herniated discs are sometimes referred to as ruptured or slipped discs, although the entire disc doesn't actually rupture or slip. Only the small area around the fracture is ultimately affected.