Neck pain, sharp pain that shoots into your arm, and numbness and tingling in your hand can all be signs of a cervical disc herniation. For effective relief from the pain without surgery, see the spine care specialists at Tarpon Interventional Pain & Spine Care in West Plano and North Plano, Texas, for convenient and efficient diagnostic testing and treatment of spine and nerve pain related to cervical disc herniations. Schedule an appointment online or by phone today to learn more.
Cervical Disc Herniation Q & A
What is a cervical disc herniation?
A cervical disc herniation is diagnosed when the inner portion of an intervertebral disc bulges through the fibrous outer layers of the disc and compresses the surrounding cervical nerves. The inner portions of intervertebral discs are made of a gelatinous material, which may protrude through the thick, outer layers of the disc, leading to pain and other symptoms in the neck and nerves in the area.
What are the symptoms of a cervical disc herniation?
Symptoms of a cervical disc herniation can vary from mild, localized neck pain to severe nerve pain that extends from your neck into your arm and hand. Other possible symptoms that may result from a disc herniation include:
- Shoulder pain or weakness
- Weakness in your biceps, triceps, or forearm muscles
- Decreased grip strength
- Decreased hand and wrist coordination
- Numbness and tingling in your arm, wrist, or hand
- Sharp, shooting pain into your arm or hand
Cervical disc herniations usually produce symptoms on only one side of your body, though it’s possible to experience symptoms on both sides. You may also notice the symptoms on the inside or outside of your arm or in specific fingers of your hand, which can indicate to the team which cervical disc has herniated.
What causes a cervical disc herniation?
Cervical disc herniations are usually caused by wear and tear and trauma. They most often occur in people between the ages of 30-50, though they can happen at younger or older ages. Some things that might increase your risk of developing a cervical disc herniation include:
- Participating in sports that involve large, frequent neck movements
- An occupation that involves prolonged poor posture or repetitive movements
- Genetics
- History of one or more car accidents
To prevent cervical disc herniations, the team at Tarpon Interventional Pain & Spine Care may recommend you exercise regularly, maintain a healthy body weight, and practice good posture when working, driving, and relaxing.
How is a cervical disc herniation treated?
Treatment for cervical disc herniations depends on the size of your disc herniation and your symptoms. In some cases, physical therapy or traction can provide relief. For moderate to severe cases, the team also offers:
- Radiofrequency ablation (RFA)
- Nerve blocks
- Joint injections
- Epidural steroid injections
- Spinal cord stimulation (SCS)
In most cases, surgery can be avoided. The team works with you throughout your treatment to ensure you get the care and relief you need.
Call Tarpon Interventional Pain & Spine Care or use online booking to schedule an exam for disc-related pain in your neck today.