What Is a Disc Protrusion?

Disc protrusion is a subtype of disc herniation. Disc herniation refers to damage or deformation that causes an intervertebral disc to bulge outside of the intervertebral disc space and into the spinal canal. 

Doctors define a disc protrusion as a disc herniation where the base of the herniation is wider than any other point. The disc remains intact, but the bulge may irritate nearby nerves or ligaments and cause back pain. 

Disc Protrusion Symptoms

Disc protrusion or herniation does not always cause symptoms. When it does, the symptoms may vary based on the location of the protruding disc and how it interacts with the spinal cord. Some symptoms of a protruding or herniated disc include:

• Back pain
• Numbness, tingling, or pain that radiates down one of your limbs
• Fatigue or heaviness in your legs that gets worse with movement (known as claudication) 
• Muscle weakness (in more severe cases)

The symptoms of a protruding or herniated disc may get better or worse depending on your position. Sitting, especially prolonged sitting, may exacerbate (worsen) symptoms, while leaning forward often relieves them.   

Rarely, disc protrusions or herniations can interfere with your spinal cord and cause cauda equina syndrome, a serious condition that needs emergency surgical intervention. If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek emergency care right away:

• Sudden incontinence (loss of control of your bladder or bowels)
• Sudden and rapidly spreading numbness in your buttocks, groin, and thighs (saddle anesthesia)

Causes of Disc Protrusions

Disc herniation or protrusions are incredibly common and can develop from either acute events or chronic stresses on the spine. Often, the exact cause isn’t known. Common risk factors for developing disc protrusions or herniations include: 

• Aging
• Obesity
• Height
• A history of heavy physical work, especially with long hours or under high stress
• A history of smoking
• Spending a significant amount of time in vehicles (e.g., truck drivers)
• Sedentary lifestyle choices
• Genetic (inherited) factors

Acute traumatic injuries, such as car accidents or sports injuries, can also cause disc protrusions.  

How Is a Disc Protrusion Diagnosed?

The Spine Pro offers diagnosis and treatment of protruding discs in the heart of Beverly Hills. Dr. Hooman Melamed is a board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon nationally recognized for his expertise in spinal health. He specializes in holistic, noninvasive, personalized treatment. 

Disc protrusions are often diagnosed by imaging. At The Spine Pro, Dr. Melamed will use a combination of techniques to evaluate and diagnose your back pain, including asking about your symptoms, lifestyle, and medical history, and performing a thorough physical exam. He uses multiple imaging techniques to diagnose disc protrusions, including X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs.

Disc Protrusion Treatment Options in Beverly Hills

At The Spine Pro in Beverly Hills, surgery is always a last resort. Dr. Melamed specializes in holistic and noninvasive treatments for a variety of back conditions, including disc protrusions, and will work closely with you to determine the best treatment options based on your symptoms, lifestyle, and preferences.

Most disc protrusions can be managed using conservative treatment. Common strategies include use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) pain medication, short-term use of oral steroids, muscle relaxers, or epidural steroid injections, and physical therapy to strengthen the back and core and correct posture or movement patterns. All of these strategies may be used at The Spine Pro to treat your disc protrusion. Dr. Melamed may also recommend other noninvasive interventions, such as yoga, Pilates, acupuncture, chiropractic care, and lifestyle interventions such as quitting smoking. 

If your protruding disc continues to cause symptoms despite these conservative treatment strategies, Dr. Melamed is an expert in ultra-minimally invasive surgical techniques. He offers procedures such as microlaminotomy, where a small portion of bone is removed to create extra disc space, and minimally invasive discectomies, where the protruding portion of the disc is removed. Minimally invasive surgeries minimize the damage to the surrounding tissue, shorten recovery time, and maximize long-term range of motion. Dr. Melamed does not use opioid pain medication for any of his microdecompression interventions, and avoids spinal fusion unless required for severe spinal instability. He will work closely with you to identify the most appropriate interventions tailored to your needs.  

Recovery

More than 85% of people with disc protrusions or herniations will improve within 12 weeks with conservative management. Most people who do need minimally invasive surgery can typically resume their normal activities within a week or two. At The Spine Pro, you’ll have access to state-of-the-art care and expertise throughout your recovery. Dr. Melamed emphasizes holistic recovery programs, including physical therapy, ergonomic retraining, and lifestyle or diet interventions to minimize inflammation and maximize your healing. 

Make an Appointment with Dr. Melamed Today

If you’re experiencing symptoms of a protruding disc, The Spine Pro offers state-of-the-art care right here in Beverly Hills. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Melamed today to find the best treatment options for you.