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Cervical Disc Herniation: Signs and Treatment

To help you discuss symptoms and treatment options for cervical disc herniation with your orthopedic surgeon, here’s a breakdown of this condition.

What is a Cervical Herniated Disc?

Cervical herniated disc is when the intervertebral discs in the neck bulge, rupture, slip, or extrude, resulting in neck, shoulder, and arm pain. In some cases, a herniated disc happens due to injury, repetitive movements, or degenerative disc disease (DDD).

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Cervical Herniated Disc?

Patients with cervical disc herniation typically experience the following signs and symptoms:

  • Increased pain with movement
  • Burning, tingling or numbness
  • Stiffness in hand or arm
  • Improper balance and gait
  • In rare cases, bowel and bladder dysfunction
  • Radiculopathy

Diagnosis of Cervical Herniated Disc

To diagnose and develop a treatment plan for cervical disc herniation, your orthopedic surgeon will perform the following:

  • Medical history: Your orthopedic surgeon will gather a detailed history of your symptoms and any treatments received.
  • Complete physical examination: Your orthopedic surgeon will perform a thorough examination of your body movements, including examining the back to assess for flexibility, range of motion, and the presence of certain signs that suggest nerve roots.
  • Investigations: Your orthopedic surgeon will order diagnostic imaging techniques, such as X-rays, CT scan, and MRI scans to confirm the location of the damaged cervical disc.

What are the Treatments of Cervical Herniated Disc?

Your orthopedic surgeon will likely recommend conservative treatment measures for cervical disc herniation, such as rest, medication, physical therapy, and pain-blocking injections.

If non-surgical treatment options don’t help, your orthopedic surgeon may recommend minimally invasive spine surgery, such as anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF).

Don’t let a herniated disc cause you pain, suffering, discomfort, and immobility. See how our orthopedic surgeons can help provide a solution for you.