In our informative article reviewed and approved by our neurosurgery (Brain and Nerve Surgery) department doctor,
Prof. Tunç Öktenoğlu, you can find detailed information about cervical disc hernia.
The human spine has a dynamic structure consisting of 33 vertebrae. The neck region within the spine is one of the most mobile parts of the system.
Neck pain may be caused by poor posture, but it can also be a symptom of other medical conditions. In addition to calcification, which is one of the most common causes, cervical disc hernia, which is a much more serious condition, may be the main cause of pain.
What is a Cervical Disc Hernia?
A cervical disc hernia is a condition in which the disc material between the cervical vertebrae tears, breaks down, and shifts into the canal as a result of aging or trauma, putting pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots.
What Are the Symptoms of a Cervical Disc Hernia?
A cervical disc hernia is a condition commonly seen in people aged 30 and older. Cervical discs cause pain in the neck, shoulders, and arms, which is called radiculopathy. Pain may radiate down the arm from the compressed nerve root. If the cervical disc compresses the spinal cord, it can cause difficulty walking, excessive pain, and significant bowel and bladder problems. The most common symptoms are:
- Neck or shoulder pain.
- Pain radiating from the back of the neck to the head.
- Restlessness in one or both arms.
- Severe pain in one or both arms.
- Weakness in one or both arms or hands.
- Numbness in one or both arms.
- A difference in urination production or a problem with defecation
- Dizziness, unsteadiness when walking.
- Restriction of neck movements.
- Pain radiating to the nape.
Does a Cervical Disc Hernia Cause a Headache?
A cervical disc hernia can often cause headaches that start at the base of the skull and may spread to the temples and around the eyes. These pains, which can often be confused with migraines or tension headaches, can spread from the nerves to different parts of the body.
Does a Cervical Disc Hernia Cause Jaw Pain?
Herniated discs in the neck or cervical spine can cause sharp pain in the jaw and surrounding areas. The fluid that leaks from the discs can affect exposed nerve roots. In this case, the person may feel a sharp pain in the jaw area where the nerve carries sensation.
Does a Cervical Disc Hernia Cause Nausea?
People with cervical disc hernia experience pain not only in the neck region but also in other parts of their body as the nerves transmit this pain. Cervical disc hernia, which causes severe pain, limited mobility, loss of balance, dizziness, and insomnia, can also cause nausea for these reasons.
Does a Cervical Disc Hernia Cause Arm Pain?
Cervical disc hernia causes severe pain in the body. These pain significantly reduces the quality of life. One of the most common symptoms is a feeling of pain descending from the neck to the arms
What are the Treatment Methods for Cervical Disc Hernia?
The treatment of a cervical disc hernia depends on the degree of the herniation and the amount of pressure exerted by the disc structure on the nerves leading to the arms and spinal cord. If there is only mild neck or arm pain and no numbness, weakness, or limited movement, this indicates that the cervical disc hernia is in its initial stage. In this case, the patient can be treated with muscle relaxant medications. Bed rest is recommended, and avoiding poor posture and movements that strain the neck is advised. More advanced diagnoses can be treated with surgery. The following are the things the patient should pay attention to before surgery:
- The patient should not lift weights exceeding two to three kilograms.
- A short-term neck brace should be used.
- A low and soft pillow should be used.
- Daily exercises should be done to strengthen the neck muscles.
- The patient should always keep their neck warm and should not stand in front of open windows or in drafts.
- Patients with neck and arm pain should always avoid stress. Stress can increase pain as well as the progression of a cervical disc hernia.
- They should not spend too much time in front of the computer or television in an improper position.
Is it Possible to Treat Cervical Disc Hernia Without Surgery?
Depending on the level of the cervical disc hernia, non-surgical treatment is possible. Painkillers and muscle relaxants are used as medication therapy. One of the most effective methods is cervical disc hernia exercises recommended to strengthen the muscles around the cervical vertebrae. Pushing, pulling, and stretching exercises are performed with physical therapy specialists experienced in the field. In addition to these effective methods, individuals must pay close attention to their weight and posture.
What Is Good for Cervical Disc Hernia Pain?
Most cases of cervical disc hernia can be successfully treated with over-the-counter pain relievers, physical therapy to strengthen and stretch the neck, ice or heat packs, and avoiding movements that may cause pain. Some methods that may help with cervical disc hernia pain include:
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Short rest periods: While strenuous activities and movements that worsen the pain should be avoided for a few days, certain movements are typically recommended to prevent the neck from weakening or stiffening.
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Ice or heat application: Applying ice can help reduce swelling and pain. Applying heat can help relax muscles and bring more blood flow and healing nutrients to the area. For ice or heat therapy, applications should be limited to 15 or 20 minutes with at least a 2-hour interval to allow the skin time to heal.
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Simple Exercises: Some forms of neck pain or muscle tension can be relieved by performing simple movements and stretching.
Which Department Is Applied For Cervical Disc Hernia?
Individuals exhibiting symptoms of a cervical disc hernia may visit our hospital's Neurosurgery (Brain and Nerve Surgery) department.
For your appointment requests, you can reach our call center 24/7 at 444 3 777 or create an appointment request through our website. Within the scope of e-Health services offered by American Hospital, you can also have online consultations with our physicians without having to come to the hospital.