Cervical Disc Herniations

Disc degeneration or acute injury can cause the nucleus to herniate into the spinal canal or the neural foramen.

Evaluating Your Condition

WHAT CAUSES DISC HERNIATION (CERVICAL)?

Intervertebral discs are positioned in between each vertebral body (the bones of the spine). Each disc is composed of a tough outer ring (the annulus) and a soft gel-like inner core (the nucleus). Disc degeneration or acute injury can cause the nucleus to herniate into the spinal canal or the neural foramen. The herniated disc can directly compress a nerve root (radiculopathy) or disc material can irritate the nerve root (radiculitis), causing pain, numbness, and tingling radiating down the path of the nerve from the neck through the shoulder and into the arm and hand.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF DISC HERNIATION (CERVICAL)?

  • Sharp pain, burning, tingling, or numbness in the arm and hand
  • Muscle weakness in the shoulder, arm, or hand
  • Loss of reflexes in the arm
  • Weakness or numbness in the legs*
  • Loss of bowel or bladder control*

* These symptoms indicate a very serious condition, medical attention should be sought immediately

Common Treatments Available for Cervical Disc Herniations