Bulging disks in the neck should be addressed appropriately, as they can be considered to be precursors to potential disk herniation. Bulging disks occur when the circular cushions in between the vertebrae bulge out of place. Diagnosis of a bulging disk in the neck, or cervical spine, occurs after a detailed physical exam and magnetic resonance imaging, which produces a detailed image of the body's internal structures. Several conditions can cause bulging disks in the neck.
Old Age
A bulging disk is caused by the cushions between the cervical spine joints getting pushed out of place, which can occur over time during the natural process of aging. The cervical spine is made up of seven vertebrae and a complex network of nerves, muscles, tendons and ligaments that support the neck, according to BackPainDetails.com. Over time, with aging, the joints of the body are put under increasing strain. With advancing age, the disks in the neck may start to lose water content as well, which makes them less effective as cushions for the joints, notes the North American Spine Society. This can result in disk deterioration and displacement of the disk, resulting in a bulging disk in the neck.
Whiplash
After a vehicle accident where whiplash results, it is not always possible to determine the exact cause for neck pain, notes the North American Spine Society. However, strained muscles and ligaments normally heal within six to 10 weeks after the accident. If pain lasts longer than this time, it is usually indicative of disk or joint injury. Disk injury can occur from whiplash due to a vehicle accident and cause chronic neck pain. Some of the pain and problems can result from the muscles of the neck working hard to protect the bulging disks. When a cervical disk is injured via a vehicle accident, it can result in headaches known as "cervicogenic headaches."
Other Injuries
The muscles and ligaments in and around the neck provide support and stability. Any injury that causes excessive movement to the head or neck can result in damage to the cervical spine. Other common injuries that affect the neck include contact sports and falls, notes the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. These types of injuries can result in a disk bulging or slipping out of place.
