What happens when disc is bulging touching the nerve roots?

When a disc is bulging and touches the nerve roots, it can lead to symptoms such as pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness in the areas served by those affected nerves. This condition, often referred to as radiculopathy, occurs because the bulging disc exerts pressure on the nerve roots as they exit the spinal column. The severity of symptoms can vary based on the extent of the bulge and the individual’s overall health. Treatment options typically include physical therapy, pain management, and, in severe cases, surgery.