Disc protrusion

Disc protrusion is one of the most common spinal changes and represents an early stage of intervertebral disc degeneration. It occurs when the annulus fibrosus—the outer “shell” of the disc—weakens or degenerates, causing the disc to bulge slightly beyond its normal boundaries. Unlike a disc herniation, there is no rupture of the annulus; instead, there is a mild outward deformation.