040 68334455
WhatsApp
Patient Portal
Home Care
Cervical Disc Herniation: Causes, Signs, and Treatment
Cervical disc herniation occurs when the soft, gel-like center of a spinal disc in the neck protrudes through a tear in the tough outer layer. This condition can lead to compression of nearby nerves or the spinal cord, potentially causing pain and affecting overall mobility and function. The impact of cervical disc herniation on health can vary depending on the severity of the herniation and the specific nerves affected. It may result in limitations in movement, discomfort, and potential disruptions in daily activities.
What are the Symptoms of Cervical Disc Herniation
Cervical disc herniation may present with various symptoms related to the neck and arms.
- Neck pain
- Arm pain
- Numbness or tingling in the shoulder or arm
- Weakness in the arm or hand
- Difficulty with fine motor skills in the hand
- Pain that radiates down the arm to the fingers
- Muscle weakness in the arm or hand
- Stiff neck
- Headaches, specifically in the back of the head
Get a second opinion from trusted experts and makeconfident, informed decisions.
Get Second OpinionCauses of Cervical Disc Herniation
Cervical disc herniation is commonly caused by age-related degeneration of the spinal discs, leading to the inner gel-like material pushing out and putting pressure on the surrounding nerves in the neck region.
- Aging
- Trauma
- Genetics
- Repetitive movements
- Poor posture
Types of Cervical Disc Herniation
Cervical disc herniation can take different forms, each presenting with distinct symptoms and affecting various parts of the neck and surrounding nerves.
- Central Disc Herniation: Occurs when the inner core of the cervical disc protrudes into the spinal canal, potentially impacting the spinal cord.
- Posterolateral Disc Herniation: Involves the displacement of the disc material to the side and back of the spinal canal, often leading to nerve compression and radiating arm pain.
- Paracentral Disc Herniation: Characterized by the herniation of the disc material towards one side of the spinal canal, causing localized neck pain and possible neurological symptoms.
- Foraminal Disc Herniation: Involves the disc material pressing on a nerve root as it exits the spinal canal through small openings called neural foramina, leading to arm pain, weakness, or numbness.
- Far Lateral Disc Herniation: Occurs when the disc material extends into the area where the nerve root exits the spinal canal, potentially causing severe neck and arm pain along with neurological deficits.
Risk Factors
Cervical disc herniation risk factors include aging, smoking, obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, and engaging in activities that involve repetitive neck motion or heavy lifting.
- Age
- Genetics
- Occupation
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Poor posture
- Lack of regular exercise
Your health is everything - prioritize your well-being today.
Schedule Your Appointment
Diagnosis of Cervical Disc Herniation
Cervical Disc Herniation is typically diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests.
- Physical Examination
- MRI scan
- CT scan
- X Rays
- Electromyography (EMG)
- Nerve Conduction Studies
Treatment for Cervical Disc Herniation
Cervical disc herniation is generally treated through various conservative or surgical interventions aimed at relieving symptoms and improving function.
- Physical Therapy: Involves specific exercises and stretches to improve neck strength and flexibility, reducing pain and improving function.
- Medication: Pain relievers, muscle relaxants, and antiinflammatory drugs may be prescribed to manage pain and inflammation associated with cervical disc herniation.
- Steroid Injections: Injecting corticosteroids near the affected nerve can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in some cases.
- Surgery: In severe cases where conservative treatments fail, surgical options like discectomy or cervical fusion may be considered to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves.
- Acupuncture: An alternative therapy that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to help alleviate pain and promote healing, though evidence on its effectiveness for cervical disc herniation is mixed.
Still have questions? Speak with our experts now!
040-68334455Frequently Asked Questions
What is cervical disc herniation?
Cervical disc herniation occurs when the cushionlike discs between the vertebrae in the neck bulge or rupture, putting pressure on nearby nerves.
What are the common symptoms of cervical disc herniation?
Common symptoms include neck pain, arm pain, numbness or tingling in the arms or hands, weakness in the arms, and difficulty with fine motor skills.
How is cervical disc herniation diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, imaging tests such as MRI or CT scans, and possibly nerve conduction studies to assess nerve function.
What are the treatment options for cervical disc herniation?
Treatment may include rest, physical therapy, medications for pain and inflammation, epidural steroid injections, and in severe cases, surgery such as discectomy or spinal fusion.
Can cervical disc herniation be prevented?
While it may not always be preventable, maintaining good posture, avoiding heavy lifting or repetitive neck motions, staying active, and practicing proper ergonomics can help reduce the risk of cervical disc herniation.
Feeling unwell?
Request a callback!
