The spinal discs are soft, spongy cushions that act as shock absorbers between the bones of the spine, called vertebrae. When these discs become too compressed, they can bulge outward and put pressure on the nerves surrounding the spine. This can cause extreme pain and discomfort. If you have a bulging disc, you may be wondering whether or not you can decompress it.
The answer is not a simple yes or no. While it is possible to reduce the bulging of a disc, it is not always possible to completely decompress it. That being said, there are several approaches to relieving the pressure on a bulging disc.
The first approach is to seek medical attention. Your doctor may recommend medications to reduce inflammation, as well as physical therapy to improve flexibility and strength in the affected area. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to completely decompress a disc.
Another approach is to use at-home treatments. This can include applying hot or cold compresses to the affected area, using lumbar supports, and doing stretching and strengthening exercises.
Finally, you may want to consider using non-invasive treatments such as spinal decompression therapy. This type of therapy uses a computer-controlled table to apply gentle traction to the spine, helping to reduce pressure on the discs.
Overall, it is possible to decompress a bulging disc, although it is not always possible to completely eliminate the bulging. By seeking medical attention and using at-home treatments and non-invasive therapies, you can reduce the pressure on a bulging disc and get relief from your pain.