A cervical bulging disc is a common condition that develops when the gel-like center of a disc pushes against the weakened outer layer due to age-related degeneration. This causes the disc to bulge out of its normal boundaries and into the spinal column, leading to pain, numbness, tingling and muscle weakness in the neck, chest, arms and hands if the nerve root or spinal cord becomes compressed. In order to treat this condition, your doctor may recommend a conservative treatment regimen, which may consist of the exercises described below.

Common exercises for a cervical bulging disc

The following common bulging disc exercises can help you ease the pain in your cervical spine:

1. Chin tucks. Stand straight with your shoulders pushed back. Tuck your chin down into your chest, then look up at the ceiling so you feel a mild stretch at the front of your neck.
2. Cervical isometrics. Press the right temple, ear, forehead or back of the head lightly with your fingertips. Then, repeat on your left side. You should experience slight resistance with this exercise.
3. Shoulder shrugs. Bring your shoulders up to your ears and then drop them back down. Then, bring your shoulders forward and then backward, while squeezing the shoulder blades together. Make sure your body is properly aligned during this exercise.

It is advised that you complete two to three repetitions of these exercises. However, consult your doctor prior to beginning a new exercise to avoid overexerting yourself and worsening your condition.

When surgical intervention becomes necessary for a cervical bulging disc

If bulging disc exercises combined with alternative forms of conservative therapy, such as pain medication, chiropractic care and anti-inflammatories do not provide you with adequate relief from your symptoms, then contact the dedicated team at USA Spine Care. We offer a safer and effective alternative to traditional open spine surgery that has helped thousands of patients find relief.

As the leader in minimally invasive spine surgery, we are committed to helping patients find the lasting relief that they deserve, allowing them to quickly return to the activities they have been missing out on. To find out if you are a potential candidate for our cervical bulging disc surgery, reach out to us today and ask for a free MRI review.*