A herniated disc occurs when the spinal disc ruptures and presses against the nerves in the spine. A protrusion occurs when the spinal disc bulges outward, but the gel-like fluid does not leave the spinal disc. Heavy lifting, regular twisting movements, poor posture, and direct trauma can cause spinal compression leading to a herniated disc or protrusion. Regular exercise and stretching can help prevent these conditions.
A herniated disc occurs when the sheath that holds the gel-like fluid between the vertebrae — known as the spinal disc — ruptures and presses against the nerves in the spine. The term “herniated disc protrusion” is actually a misnomer, as a protrusion and a herniation are two different states. A protrusion occurs when the spinal disc bulges outward, but the gel-like fluid does not leave the spinal disc. In other words, the spinal disc does not rupture, which would be referred to as a herniated disc. When people mention a herniated disc protrusion, they are actually referring to a disc protrusion, not a herniation.
The concept behind the term “herniated disc protrusion” remains the same: the gelatinous fluid is contained within an encapsulation, and when that encapsulation bulges outward, a protrusion occurs. When that protrusion leads to a rupture, a herniated disc has occurred. These conditions are caused by spinal compression, which can occur when the spine experiences direct trauma, awkward twisting motion, or gradual degradation of the spinal disc itself. A herniated disc or herniated disc protrusion — known simply as a bulging disc — can lead to other health problems such as sciatica, back pain, chronic headaches, and leg pain.
Regular heavy lifting can lead to a herniated disc or a protrusion of the herniated disc. The constant compression of the spine can place excessive stress on the spinal disc, leading to a bulge or rupture. Athletes often suffer from herniated discs due to the regular strain placed on the spine, and regular twisting movements can also lead to the likelihood of a herniated disc or protrusion. Injuries aren’t just limited to athletes, however, as long periods of sitting or standing can also lead to spinal compression. Car accidents or falls can also cause direct trauma resulting in spinal compression.
Poor posture while sitting in an office chair can lead to a herniated disc, especially if the person does not exercise regularly. When muscles weaken, they can no longer support the spine the way they are designed to. The spine is therefore more likely to compress, especially if the office chair does not offer adequate support for the lumbar spine, as well as neck and shoulder support. A regular exercise routine that strengthens the core muscles of the body — namely the lower back muscles, stomach muscles, and hip and groin muscles — can help prevent a herniated disc or bulging in the future . Regular stretching can also help keep your spinal muscles healthy and flexible, which in turn prevents spinal compression.
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