Cervical Disc Herniation

Cervical disc herniation occurs when the soft cartilaginous discs that act as a pillow between the cervical vertebrae are torn and the structure we call the nucleus pulposus inside protrudes outward. Pain and other symptoms occur with heavy lifting or movements that give excessive stress to the neck, the pressure of the hernia overflowing into the spinal canal and nerve roots.

Cervical Disc Herniation Symptoms

Cervical disc herniation symptoms listed below:

• Pain radiating to hands, fingers and arms (Radiculopathy)

• Numbness and numbness in the hand, finger and shoulder

• Weakness in hands and arms

• Intense pain can be felt in neck movements.

More serious situations may occur in cervical disc herniation that compress the spinal cord. And more aggressive treatment planning may be required.

Spinal cord compression symptoms include:

• Loss of balance and difficulty in walking motor skills

• Numbness towards the trunk and legs may suddenly feel like an electric shock.

Diagnosis of Cervical Disc Herniation

In its diagnosis, the patient's history and physical examination are very important. Increasing symptoms with coughing, sneezing and straining is an indication of severe pressure on the nerve. Diagnosis can be made with cervical MR examination. In cases where detailed information about the bone structure is needed (especially due to trauma, tumors, etc.), it is performed in a tomography examination.

Treatment Options for Cervical Disc Herniation

Conservative treatments are often very effective in the treatment of cervical disc herniation. Initially applied pain relievers, cold and hot therapies, With treatments such as epidural steroid injections , physiotherapy, and bed rest, complaints at a high rate of 95% disappear.

If pain persists or progressive paralysis develops despite 6 weeks of treatment; the patient is a candidate for cervical disc herniation surgery.

Dr. Tamer Tekin