Cervical Disc Herniation
The neck has seven vertebrae, and the discs between them are cushion-like cartilage that absorbs shock.
A cervical disc herniation occurs when a disc between the neck vertebrae bulges out and presses on a nerve, causing pain.
Common causes
01
Degeneration, or body alignment twisted by long-term poor posture
02
Poor posture with heavy computer or smartphone use
03
Major trauma such as traffic accidents or falls
Signs to watch for
- Stiff, aching, tight pain at the back of the neck
- Headaches and chronic neck pain
- Weakness in the arm or hand from nerve compression
How we diagnose
X-ray
The basic first test. Further tests may be added for a definite diagnosis.
MRI
Shows soft tissue that X-ray cannot, such as muscles, ligaments, discs, cartilage, nerves and blood vessels.
How we treat it
Early on, we start with non-surgical, conservative treatment. A cervical disc does not appear suddenly; it comes from poor posture repeated over time, so ongoing care matters as much as treatment.
Manual & exercise therapy
A specialist physical therapist uses hands-on techniques based on anatomy, such as relaxation methods and joint mobilization, to reduce pain and improve function.
Nerve block (non-surgical)
A mix of medications, such as a steroid, local anesthetic, and anti-adhesion agents, is delivered through a long needle deep to the painful nerve. This removes adhesions and calms inflammation, relieving pain and helping prevent recurrence. It is done while watching a live monitor, so the medicine reaches the exact source of pain.
Arthroscopy
Through a minimal incision under about 5 mm, an arthroscope with a tiny camera and special instruments is inserted into the joint. It shows areas that are hard to see on X-ray, allowing accurate diagnosis and treatment at the same time.
When surgery is consideredFor cervical discs we use prolotherapy and medication, and if there is no improvement, a targeted nerve block can calm the irritated nerve.