If you are experiencing neck pain, it is essential to get checked out by a doctor. You may have a herniated cervical disk. A herniated cervical disk is when the cushion between the vertebrae in your neck ruptures. This can cause immense pain and stiffness in your neck.
This blog will discuss what a herniated cervical disk is, the symptoms of this condition, and the treatment options available to you.
Causes of Herniated Cervical Disk
Several factors can cause a herniated cervical disk. The most common cause is due to wear and tear on the disks. As we age, the disks in our spine begin to degenerate, leading to a herniated disk.
Other causes include injury or trauma to the spine, such as car accidents or falls. Obesity can also play a role in herniated disks, as extra weight puts added pressure on the spine. If you have any of these risk factors, it’s essential to be aware of the signs and symptoms of the herniated cervical disk so you can seek treatment if necessary.
Symptoms
The most common symptom of a herniated cervical disk is neck pain. The pain may radiate from your neck into your shoulders, arms, or chest and may be a dull ache or a sharp, shooting pain. You might also have tingling or numbness in your arm or hand.
If the herniated disk presses on your spinal cord, you could experience weakness in your arms or legs. In some cases, people with a herniated cervical disk do not have any symptoms. Herniated disks are most likely to occur in your lower back and neck.
Diagnosis
A Herniated Cervical Disk can be diagnosed through a physical examination. The doctor will feel any stiffness or pain in your neck and may also ask you to move your head in certain ways.
An MRI, CT scan, or X-ray can also be used to diagnose a Herniated Cervical Disk. These tests will show if there is any damage to the disks in your spine. If you have a Herniated Cervical Disk, you may need to see a specialist such as a neurosurgeon.
Treatment of Herniated Cervical Disk
There are several different treatment options available for a herniated cervical disk. Your doctor will work with you to determine the best course of treatment.
For mild cases of a herniated cervical disk, the doctor may recommend over-the-counter pain medication and ice or heat therapy. They may also suggest physical therapy to help strengthen the muscles around the affected area.
For more severe cases, the doctor may recommend steroid injections or surgery. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the problem. Surgery is usually recommended only if other treatment options have failed.
Don’t suffer in silence. Get the help you need today.
If you are suffering from a herniated cervical disk, see a doctor immediately so they can develop a treatment plan that is right for you. There are many different treatment options available, and the sooner you start treatment, the better your chances of recovery. Our team is dedicated to helping you regain your quality of life, so don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Contact GNS Surgery Center today to get started with your treatment.
