Back or neck pain can strike suddenly—sometimes from a simple movement like bending over—and leave you wondering what went wrong. At Reset Chiropractic & Rehab in London, Ontario, we often see patients who’ve been told they have a herniated disc or a bulging disc but aren’t sure what that really means. While these two conditions sound similar, understanding the difference can help you make sense of your symptoms and recovery options.
What’s the Difference? Think of a Jelly Doughnut
Picture your spinal discs like soft jelly doughnuts sitting between the bones of your spine. These discs act as shock absorbers, helping your spine move smoothly.
A bulging disc happens when that doughnut flattens a bit and the outer layer starts to bulge outward evenly—like pressing on it gently so the sides puff out. It’s still intact, but under pressure.
A herniated disc, on the other hand, is when that outer layer tears and some of the inner “jelly” pushes out through the crack. That’s when things can get more uncomfortable. The leaked material may press on nearby nerves, leading to pain, numbness, or tingling that can travel down your arm or leg.
Recognizing the Symptoms
Many people first notice a deep, aching pain in the back or neck that just doesn’t go away. It might be joined by sharp, shooting sensations—sometimes described as “electricity”—that travel down one leg or arm. Other common signs include tingling, weakness, or pain that worsens with sitting, coughing, or bending forward.
If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Disc issues are one of the most common reasons people seek chiropractic care at Reset Chiropractic & Rehab.
How Do Disc Injuries Happen?
It’s not always one dramatic event. More often, it’s the result of chronic strain and everyday habits that gradually wear down the spine. Poor posture while sitting, repetitive movements, or lifting heavy objects without proper technique can all add stress to the discs. Over time, that strain can cause the outer layers to weaken.
Car accidents or sudden slips and falls can also trigger disc injuries, but many cases we see are linked to age-related changes—the discs naturally lose hydration and flexibility over the years—combined with lifestyle stressors.
Supporting a Healthy Spine
Our chiropractors, Dr. Bali and Dr. Jess often remind patients that your spine works like a stack of building blocks with shock absorbers in between. For those absorbers (the discs) to stay healthy, they need movement, hydration, and good posture. When the spine is consistently overloaded in one direction—say, slouching at a desk all day—the discs eventually protest.
The good news? With the right care, education, and movement, your spine can recover and stay strong for years to come.
Take the First Step Toward Relief
If you’ve been dealing with persistent back or neck pain—or suspect a disc issue—don’t wait for it to worsen. The sooner you address the underlying cause, the faster you can get back to living fully and comfortably.
Contact Reset Chiropractic & Rehab today to book your appointment and start your path toward lasting spinal health and freedom of movement.