Protrusion comes from the Latin ‘Protrusio’ and means ‘to push forward’ or ‘to thrust out’.

Disc protrusion (bulging disc) is an alteration of the intervertebral disc and represents a precursor to a disc herniation. In this condition, unlike a (complete) disc herniation, the fibrous ring of the disc is not torn, but bulges outwards.

A protrusion typically manifests as radiating pain in the lumbar region, though radiation into the hands and legs can also occur rarely. The disc can also press backward into the so-called spinal canal. This is a bony canal that runs vertically between the vertebrae and surrounds the spinal cord. This can lead to pressure on the posterior longitudinal ligament or on the nerves running within the vertebral canal. Both conditions result in back pain. In almost all cases, disc protrusion can be treated very effectively with conservative methods.

SpineMED® therapy represents an excellent treatment option. Typically, symptoms disappear within 4-6 weeks.