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Cervical Herniated Disc: Symptoms and Causes

Sandeep Dhanyamraju MD
Medically reviewed by Sandeep Dhanyamraju
Sandeep Dhanyamraju MD
Medically reviewed by Sandeep Dhanyamraju

A cervical herniated disc is a dangerous disease due to injuries or heavy load on the spine.

Back pain is a frequent companion of people with a sedentary lifestyle. But if you do not visit the doctor on time, then even due to usual scoliosis, a complication of a herniated disc may occur. It will be much more difficult to get rid of such a disease.

What is a cervical herniated disc? Intervertebral discs reduce the pressure between the vertebrae. A hernia is a process by which their nuclei protrude into the spinal canal. This protrusion is due to the destruction of the annulus fibrosus, which normally surrounds the disc and evenly distributes pressure. If it collapses on one side, then the nucleus of the intervertebral disc comes out.

A cervical herniated disc can lead to spinal stenosis. In this case, the pain occurs due to pinching of the nerve roots near the vertebra. And due to the connection of nerve fibers with the spinal cord, the pain is not only concentrated in the damaged area of ​​the back but can also spread to the arm or leg.

The primary cause of spinal stenosis is age-related changes. They affect the soft and hard tissues of both the vertebrae and ligaments, cartilaginous discs. Soft tissues serve for cushioning, help the spine to be in free movement. Their wear and tear can lead to negative changes. 

symptoms of cervical herniated disc

Cervical Herniated Disc Causes and Symptoms

Symptoms 

 A herniated disc can develop anywhere in the spine. Localization will be indicated by shooting or pulling pain at the site of destruction of the cartilage. The area may enlarge and begin to hurt more with movement. In addition, the following symptoms indicate a hernia:

  • aching pain in the limbs, shoulders, or chest;
  • decreased mobility of the spine;
  • decreased sensitivity and weakness in muscles in the legs or arms;
  • neurological disorders: headaches, insomnia, changes in blood pressure, weakness, dizziness;
  • disorders of the functions of the genitourinary system and intestines.

What exactly will show up from the symptoms depends on where the hernia is. Shoulder pain, numbness, and weakness in the arms are signs of damage to the cervical spine. With the destruction of the intervertebral disc in the lower back, problems with the intestines and pelvic organs will begin. Numbness and pain, in this case, will spread to the hips, feet, or legs completely.

 

Causes 

  • Age-related changes.
  • Salt deposits.
  • The appearance of an intervertebral hernia.
  • Lipoma, epidurals, and other pathologies.
  • Examination in pathology shows incomplete filling of the radicular pocket with a contrast agent.

Because of what a herniated disc develops, degenerative processes of intervertebral discs, like many other spine diseases, are caused by our unnatural skeleton position. The lumbosacral region is most susceptible to the destruction process; the entire mass of a person presses on it from above.

  • Destruction of the intervertebral disc from protrusion to hernia. Of course, if you are a happy owner of excellent health and athletic build and lead an active lifestyle, you have nothing to fear. But suppose you have already been diagnosed with diseases of the spine (for example, osteochondrosis); in that case, your back muscles are poorly developed, or you have recently been injured, then the future likelihood of a hernia is very high.
  • The vertebrae are already under tremendous pressure, and if the bodyweight is exceeded, they may simply not be able to withstand the heaviness; excess weight contributes to the destruction of the load of the fibrous ring. Also, the development of a hernia is influenced by factors such as the weakening of the body due to old age, autoimmune diseases, and impaired metabolism. 

All this affects the strength of the cartilage and bones in the spine.

treatment of cervical herniated disc 

Diagnosis and treatment of cervical herniated disc 

Diseases of the spine, including hernias, are dealt with by an orthopedist and a neurologist. You can also meet with other specialists, and the neurosurgeon will conduct the operation if necessary. And with conservative treatment, you will be referred to a physiotherapist, massage therapist, and exercise therapy specialist.

  • Visual inspection has little to do with diagnosing a hernia. Of course, the doctor will ask you about the symptoms, but there is an overlap with other diseases.
  • Since chest pain and numbness in the extremities can cause diseases of the internal organs or the brain, you will first get an x-ray of the spine.
  • According to its results, one can understand whether there is a problem in the vertebrae or similar symptoms were caused by different diseases.

If the X-ray confirms the deformation of the intervertebral disc, then you will be directed to more accurate studies to examine the spinal cord and nearby nerves:

  • MRI of the spine is considered the best type of diagnosis since the image will show soft tissues, nerve roots, and the structure of the spinal cord,
  • CT of the spine is much more commonly used when injuries are suspected. CT is faster than MRI, but it has contraindications.

Treatment of cervical herniated disc 

How can the cervical herniated disc be cured? Small protrusions in the intervertebral discs are treated conservatively. Various medications may be recommended for you:

  • painkillers will help to cope with discomfort and discomfort;
  • anti-inflammatory will stop pathological processes;
  • vitamin and mineral complexes help to strengthen cartilage and bone tissue;
  • the best treatment for the initial form of hernia is physiotherapy massage, electrophoresis, and manual therapy. Physiotherapy exercises and the prophylactic use of a corset and a bandage to restrict mobility proved excellent.

If therapy has not improved the situation for several months, then an operation is performed at any stage of the disease. If the disease has not long been started, then rehabilitation will not take long.

 

 FAQ

  • What disease causes pain in the neck or between the shoulder blades, pain radiating to the arm, numbness, and tingling in the shoulders or arms?

Cervical Herniated Disc is a dangerous disease due to injuries or heavy load on the spine. A herniated disc can develop anywhere in the spine. Localization will be indicated by shooting or pulling pain at the site of destruction of the cartilage. The area may enlarge and begin to hurt more with movement. I

  • What happens if a cervical herniated disc goes untreated?

If you experience any pain, you should see a doctor. If you do not treat the cervical herniated disc and begin to ignore the symptoms, severe muscle pain and partial paralysis may occur.

  • Can a cervical herniated disc heal on its own?

In most cases, pain from the cervical herniated disc will go away within six months. But you still need to see your doctor for an examination and prescribe pain relievers.

  • Does herniated cervical disc require surgery?

If you or a loved one is experiencing neck pain and/or arm pain, numbness, or weakness, surgical treatment such as cervical herniated disc surgery may be appropriate for your condition.

  • What is the fastest way to heal a herniated disc?

Treatment with rest, pain medication, spinal injections, and physical therapy is the first step to recovery. Most people improve in 6 weeks and return to normal activity. If symptoms continue, surgery may be recommended.

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Edward Medina
Edward Medina
15:34 30 Jun 22
Just such an amazing staff that makes you feel like part of their family. I’ve been going there for over 5 years now... and each visit I get the very best care and treatments that I have ever received in the 20+ years that I’ve been dealing with severe debilitating migraines. Since i started seeing them the number of my migraines has dropped from 15-20 a month to 2-3 every 3 month. I highly recommend them …they will change your life!read more
Daneisha Johnson
Daneisha Johnson
22:20 19 May 22
Dr. Askari was very kind and explained everything so I could understand. The other staff were nice as well. I would... have gave 5 stars but I was a little taken aback when I checked in and had to pay 600.00 upfront. I think that should have been discussed in a appointment confirmation call or email just so I could have been prepared.read more
Jean Cooper
Jean Cooper
16:54 29 Apr 22
I love the office staff they are friendly and very helpful. Dr. JODIE is very caring and understanding to your needs... and wants to help you. I will go back. would recommend Dr. Dr. Jodie to other Patients in a heart beat. The team works well together.read more
Linda M
Linda M
19:40 02 Apr 22
I was obviously stressed, needing to see a neurologist. The staff was so patient and Dr. Ansari was so kind. At one... point he told me to relax, we have time, when I was relaying my history of my condition. That helped ease my stress. I have seen 3 other neurologists and he was the only one who performed any assessment tests on my cognitive and physical skills. At one point I couldn't complete two assessments and got upset and cried. I was told, it's OK. That's why you're here. I was truly impressed, and super pleased with the whole experience!read more
Leslie Durham
Leslie Durham
15:05 01 Apr 22
I've been coming here for about 5 years. The staff are ALWAYS friendly and knowledgeable. The Doctors are the absolute... best!! Jodie Moore is always in such a great mood which is a plus when you are already stressed. Highly recommendedread more
Monica Del Bosque
Monica Del Bosque
14:13 25 Mar 22
Since my first post my thoughts have changed here. It's unfortunate. My doctor and PA were great, but the office staff... is horrible. They never call you back when they say they will, they misinform you, they cause you too much stress wondering what's going on, they don't keep you posted. They never answer the phone. At this point I've left four messages in the last week, and I have sent three messages. Twice from their portal and one direct email. No response. My appointment is on Monday morning at 8:30am, no confirmation on my insurance and what's going on. What the heck is going on, this is ridiculous!I've given up... the stress her office staff has put me through is just not worth it. You can do so much better, please clean house, either change out your office staff, or find a way for them to be more efficient please. You have to do something. This is not how you want to run your practice. It leaves a very bad impression on your business.read more
Ron Buckholz
Ron Buckholz
23:32 23 Mar 22
I was actually pleasantly surprised with this visit! It took me a long time to get the appointment scheduled because no... one answers your phones EVER! After a month, I finally got in, and your staff was warm, friendly, and I was totally impressed! I feel like you will take care of my needs!read more
Steve Nabavi
Steve Nabavi
16:28 16 Mar 22
It was a nice visit. Happy staff doing all they can do to comfort the patients in a very calming environment. You ask... me they are earned a big gold star on the fridge. My only complaint they didn't give me any cookies.read more
Katie Lewis
Katie Lewis
16:10 10 Feb 22
Had very positive appointments with Jodie and Dr. Sheth for my migraine care. Jodie was so fast with the injections and... has so much valuable info. I started to feel light headed during checkout and the staff was SO helpful—giving me a chair, water, and taking me into a private room until I felt better. Highly recommend this practice for migraine patients, they know what they’re doing!!read more
Joshua Martinez
Joshua Martinez
16:02 10 Dec 21
I was scheduled to be checked and just want to say that the staff was fantastic. They were kind and helpful. I was... asked many questions related to what was going on and not once did I feel as though I was being brushed off. The front desk staff was especially great in assisting me. I'm scheduled to go back for a mri and am glad that I'll be going there.read more
Isabel Ivy
Isabel Ivy
21:42 03 Nov 21
I had such a good experience with Lone Star Neurology, Brent my MRI Tech was so awesome and made sure I was very... comfortable during the appointment. He gave me ear plugs, a pillow, leg support and blanket, easiest MRI ever lol 🤣 My 72 hour EEG nurse Amanda was also so awesome. She made sure I was take care of over the 3 days and took her time with the electrodes to make sure it was comfortable for me! Paige was also a huge help in answering all my questions when it came to my test results, and letting me know her honest opinions about how I should go forth with my treatment.read more
Leslie Luce
Leslie Luce
17:37 20 Oct 21
The professionalism and want to help attitude of this office was present from the moment I contacted them. The follow... up and follow through as well as their willingness to find a way to schedule my dad was above and beyond. We visited two offices in the same day with the same experience. I am appreciative of this—we spend a lot of time with doctors and this was top notch start to finish.read more
robert Parker
robert Parker
16:38 16 Apr 21
I love going to this office. The staff is friendly and helpful. The doctor is great. I am getting the best... neurological tests and treatment I have ever had. The only reason I did not give them a 5 star rating is because it is impossible to reach a live person at the office to reschedule appointments. Every time I have tried to get through to the office it says all people are busy and I am sent to a voicemail. If they could get their phone answering fixed, I would give them a strong 5 stars.read more
MaryAnn Hornbaker
MaryAnn Hornbaker
00:26 25 Feb 21
Dr. Harney is an excellent Dr. I found him friendly , personable and thorough. I evidently am an unusual case. ... Therefore he spent a Hugh amount of time educating me. He even gave me literature to further explain my condition and how to follow up. This is something you rarely get from your doctors. So I am more than please with my doctor and his staff.read more
Roger Arguello
Roger Arguello
03:05 29 Jan 21
Always courteous, professional. The staff is very friendly and always work with you to find the best appointment time.... The care team has been great. Always taking the time to listen to your concerns and to find the best treatment.read more
Margaret Rowland
Margaret Rowland
01:12 27 Jan 21
I have been a patient at Lone Star Neurology for several years. Now both my adult daughters also are patients there. I... love Jodie. She is always so prompt whether it is a teleamed call are a visit in the office. She takes the time to explain everything to me and answers all my questions. I am so blessed to have Jodie as my doctor.read more
Susan Miller
Susan Miller
03:01 13 Jan 21
My husband had an accident 5 years ago and Lone Star Neurology has been such a blessing to us with my husbands care.... Jodie Moore is his provider and she is amazing! Jodie is very knowledgeable, caring, and thorough. She takes her time with you, making sure your needs are met and she is happy to answer any questions you may have. Lone Star Neurology’s patients are very lucky to have Jodie providing their care. Thank you Lone Star Neurology and especially Jodie for everything you have done for us. Jodie, you are the best!read more
Windalyn C
Windalyn C
01:32 09 Jan 21
Jodie is wonderful. She is very caring and knowledgeable. I have been to over a dozen neurologists, and none were able... to help me as much as they have here. Thanks!read more
Katie Kordel
Katie Kordel
00:40 09 Jan 21
Jodi Moore, nurse practitioner, is amazing. I have suffered from frequent, debilitating headaches for almost 20 years.... She has provided the best proactive and responsive care I have ever received. My quality of life has been greatly improved by her caring approach and tenacity in finding solutions.read more
Ellie Natsis
Ellie Natsis
15:41 07 Jan 21
I have had the best experience at this neurologist's office! For over a year I have been receiving iv treatments here... each month and my nurse, Bobbie is beyond wonderful!! She's so attentive, knowledgeable, caring, and detail oriented. She makes an otherwise uncomfortable experience much more pleasant and definitely puts me at ease! She also helps me with my insurance,ordering this specialty medication and dealing with the ordering process which is no easy feat.Needless to say, she goes above a beyond in every way and I'm so grateful to this office and to Bobbie for all they do for me!read more
Matt Morris
Matt Morris
15:39 07 Jan 21
Let me start by saying that I have been coming here for years. Due to my autoimmune disease, I am in this office... once every three weeks for multiple hours at a time. The office is very clean and the staff very friendly. My only complaint would be there communication via phone. They aren't the best at responding if you leave a voicemail and expect a call back. I understand that this is prob just due to the sheer number of alls they receive daily. What I can say I like the best about the office are the people. Bobby who handles my infusions is great. I never have any issues with her setting up my infusions. She is very quick to reply to messages sent via text and if she were to leave then my whole opinion of the office may change. I also enjoy people like Matt, Lauren, and Jodi. I appreciate all that they do for me and without this team I'm not sure I would be as happy as I am to visit the office as frequently as I have to. Please ensure that these folks are recognized as they are what makes my visit to this office so tolerable :).read more
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