Conditions We Treat
Bulging disc treatment in Muleshoe, TX
A bulging disc is often the early warning sign your back gives you before things get worse. Caught and treated, it doesn't have to turn into a full herniation or chronic pain. We use gentle DRX 9000 spinal decompression to relieve the bulge and the nerve pressure behind it.
The Basics
Understanding bulging disc
A bulging disc happens when a spinal disc flattens and balloons outward beyond its normal space, a bit like a tire that's low on air. Unlike a herniated disc, the soft center stays contained, but the bulge can still crowd or press on nearby nerves and cause pain.
Bulging discs are extremely common and often build up slowly over the years, which is why a lot of people have one without realizing it until the pain starts.
What causes it
Bulging discs usually come from gradual wear: aging discs lose water and flatten, and repetitive strain from lifting, bending, sitting, or physical work speeds the process. Poor posture and weak core support add to the load. Because the change is slow, the pain can sneak up on you over months or years.
How We Treat It
Non-surgical relief with the DRX 9000
Spinal decompression is well suited to a bulging disc because it addresses the cause directly. The DRX 9000 creates space and negative pressure within the disc, which helps it draw back toward its normal shape and relieves the pressure it's putting on the nerves around it.
Treating a bulging disc early often keeps it from progressing into a herniation. Dr. Leal will build a plan that relieves your current pain and helps protect the disc going forward.
An honest note on candidacy: Decompression helps many bulging-disc patients, especially when treated before the problem worsens. We'll confirm the diagnosis and tell you honestly whether it's the right approach for you.
Bulging Disc Questions
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between a bulging disc and a herniated disc?
A bulging disc balloons outward but the soft center stays contained. A herniated disc is when that center actually pushes through the outer wall. Bulging discs are often the milder, earlier stage, which is a great time to treat them.
Can a bulging disc heal on its own?
Mild cases sometimes settle with rest and time, but if it's causing pain or pressing on a nerve, treatment helps it heal more fully and reduces the chance it gets worse. Decompression is a gentle, non-surgical way to do that.
Is a bulging disc serious?
It's usually not an emergency, but it's a signal worth listening to. Treating it early is far easier than waiting until it herniates or causes chronic nerve pain. A quick exam tells us where you stand.
Related Conditions
Often connected to bulging disc
Ready for relief from bulging disc?
Book your $57 new-patient visit and get an honest, expert answer about what's causing your pain and how we can help.
Office Hours
- Mon – Thu8AM–12PM, 2PM–6PM
- Fri – SunClosed
1106 W American Blvd, Muleshoe, TX 79347
Same-day new-patient consultations available