Vertebral discs are gelatinous-filled sacs that provide cushioning between each of the vertebrae for smooth movement. The causes of bulging discs, or disc herniation, in the back are related to age, accident or injury, excess body fat and too much heavy lifting. Herniations can occur anywhere along the vertebral column but are commonly found along the lumbar spine located at or below the hips.
Age
Age is one cause of bulging discs in the back. The muscles and ligaments holding the vertebral column in place can begin to wear from patterns of gait, arthritis, degenerative disc disease and other age-related bone disorders. This deterioration can cause the gelatinous sacs or discs to begin to decay in some areas along the spinal column. Disc degeneration allows the vertebrae above and below the disc to move out of alignment, causing the vertebrae to pinch nerves and blood vessels located around the muscle. Pinched nerves reduce blow flow and nerve conduction to the discs, eroding the disc strength.
Accident or Injury
Another factor in bulging discs in the back is accident or injury. Sudden jarring or jamming of the vertebrae can not only force them out of alignment but with additional force can shatter the vertebrae, and tear the ligament and muscle around the disc, causing weakness, inflammation and severe pain. Accidents and injuries can also break shards of vertebrae from their spinous and articular processes, forming permanent misalignment. Over time, the force of the vertebral misalignment can cause discs to bulge.
Excess Weight
Excess body weight on the skeletal frame can also cause discs to bulge or herniate. The vertebral column is designed to withstand impact and force of body mass, muscle and misalignments. However, over time excess overall and abdominal weight force greater impact on the hips, legs and feet. The body uses muscle, tendon, ligament and joint articulations to support extension and flexion of the vertebral column, but excess weight forces the actual bones and vertebrae in the spine to move in a way they were not designed. Constant impact of great force upon the vertebral discs causes herniation.
Excessive Heavy Lifting
Excessive heavy lifting can cause degeneration of the discs of the spine. The constant overloading of the muscles of the body, especially hypertonic or flaccid quadriceps, abdominals and hamstrings, can cause bulging or herniated discs in the back. Unlike excess weight that is constant, excessive heavy lifting applies shearing and torque forces to the muscles of the ,back resulting in excess strain to the muscles, ligaments and gelatinous discs between the vertebrae.
