Disc Herniation vs. Disc Rupture: Understanding the Difference

Disc herniation and disc rupture refer to the same condition.

Disc Basics

• Spinal discs act as shock absorbers between adjacent vertebrae. Each spinal disc has a hard exterior and contains a soft gel-like interior (called the nucleus pulposus).

Herniation

• Disc herniation (or rupture) happens when a crack in the outer layer of the disc lets some of the soft interior material protrude out of the disc. Herniated, ruptured or slipped disc all refer to the same condition.

Bulging Disc

• A different condition is the bulging disc, where the disc extends outward from where it normally should be. However, a bulging disc has not broken open.

Treatment

• According to the Mayo Clinic, treatment options for herniated discs include pain medications, cold and/or heat therapy, electrical stimulation, bracing, hydrotherapy, traction, stretching, lumbar stabilization exercises, aerobic exercise and surgery.

Expert Insight

• According to the Mayo Clinic, no herniated disc treatment is best for everyone. The choice will be based on the nature of your condition, how it's affecting your life and how much pain you have.