define bulging disc
What is a Bulging Disc? A bulging disc refers to when the inner nucleus of a vertebral disc protrudes to it's outer layer. A disc bulge may happen as a result of a great amount of pressure being placed on the disc, or if the disc has degenerated from age and other factors.
A bulging disc is usually a clear sign that there are problems in the surrounding areas of the spine. The problems may be caused by increased pressure being placed on the spinal disc, or by the disc weakening from degeneration. A bulging disc in the back or neck can be one of the underlying causes of: Spinal Stenosis.