The lumbar area of the spine is the most common site for a bulging disc to develop. It is a common cause of lower back pain that radiates into the buttocks, hips, legs and feet.

In the spine, there are 33 vertebrae stacked one on top of the other, and the discs lay in between them, forming a cushion to protect the spine and the nerves. The discs have a tough cartilage on the outside and a softer cartilage in the inside.

A lumbar bulging disc occurs when the tough outer wall of cartilage becomes weak, and the soft interior cartilage pushes the wall out past its normal boundary, causing it to occupy more space than it does normally.

Many people experience no symptoms from a bulging disc in the lower back.

If, however, it is putting pressure on the nerve roots and surrounding tissues, there may be mild to severe symptoms that include:

• Pain in the back
• Leg, arm or hand pain
• Numbness, tingling or pins-and-needles sensation
• Weakness and/or muscle spasms
• Diminished reflexes
• Diminished mobility
• Difficulty standing or walking

At Lancaster Orthopedic Group, our spine specialists are experts in the diagnosis and treatment of spine injuries and conditions. Your physician will assess and diagnose your injury or condition and recommend the best course of treatment.

Most minor and moderate bulging disc problems respond well to conservative treatment, and do not require surgery. Your physician may recommend rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, acupuncture, steroid injections, a temporary back brace, and physical therapy.

In the condition fails to respond to conservative treatment, your physician may recommend surgery