Cervical Herniated Discs
It is a spinal condition that occurs when the soft, gel-like center of a cervical intervertebral disc erupts out of its tough outer lining. A cervical herniated disc or a slipped disc occurs when the outer lining of the disc ruptures. It can cause numbness, tingling, and even pain as it touches or suppresses the cervical nerve roots.
Symptoms of Cervical Herniated Disc
The symptoms of a Cervical Herniated Disc are:
- Pain while moving the arm, which may affect the hand as well.
- Pain in or near the shoulder blade.
- Neck pain upon sideways or downwards movement of the neck.
- Muscle spasms.
- A numbness or tingling sensation in the arm.
- A weakness in the arm muscles.
The symptoms of a herniated cervical disc may vary from patient to patient. Some patients experience dull, aching pain, whereas others experience sharp, burning pain. However, motor and sensory deficits are common among all patients. If a patient has a weak grip and a numb or tingling sensation, they should contact their physician at once.
Treatments of Cervical Herniated Disc
Non-surgical treatments are the first course of action for treating it. The four most common non-surgical treatments include:
- Self-care.
- Medication.
- Physical Therapy.
- Steroid Injections.
Minimally Invasive spine surgery for a herniated cervical disc is considered if symptoms persist even after all non-surgical treatment options have been exhausted. A panel of expert physicians and spine specialists considers the age and medical history of the patient to determine the suitability of spinal surgery and spinal fusion.
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FAQ’S
What Does a Herniated Disc in the Neck Feel Like?
The symptoms associated with a herniated disc are:
- Sharp and radiating pain in the neck, arm, or sometimes in hands.
- The pain can also be felt around the shoulder blade.
- Difficulty in moving neck or head.
- Numbness or tingling sensation in the arm.
How Is a Herniated Disc in the Neck Treated?
- Your specialist may recommend non-surgical treatments to treat a herniated disc in the neck.
- He may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications to relieve your pain.
- You should go for physical therapy sessions as stretching out can help in the strengthening of your neck muscles.
How Long Does It Take for a Herniated Cervical Disc to Heal?
- The time of recovery or healing a herniated cervical disc may vary from one person to another.
- Normally it may take four to six weeks to get back to your normal routine, but in some cases, the symptoms may last up to a duration of six months.
What Should You Not Do With a Herniated Disc in Your Neck?
- Do not put pressure on your neck.
- Your specialist may ask you to attend physical therapy sessions but still, avoid activities that may become a reason for stress or overloading at the affected area.
