A cervical herniated disc can cause intense neck pain, arm numbness, and even weakness that interferes with your daily life. At Ortho Sport & Spine Physicians, we help patients understand the underlying causes of this condition and provide advanced, minimally invasive treatment options that deliver real relief.
Understanding the Cervical Spine and Herniated Discs
The cervical spine consists of the top seven vertebrae in the neck. Between each vertebra lies a disc that acts as a cushion and shock absorber. Each disc has a soft inner core (nucleus pulposus) surrounded by a tougher outer layer (annulus fibrosus).
A herniated disc occurs when the inner core pushes through a tear in the outer layer, placing pressure on nearby nerves or the spinal cord. In the cervical spine, this often results in pain that radiates into the shoulders, arms, and hands—a condition called cervical radiculopathy.
What Causes a Cervical Herniated Disc?
There are several possible causes:
- Degenerative Disc Disease: As we age, spinal discs lose hydration and elasticity, making them more vulnerable to herniation.
- Trauma or Injury: Sudden trauma such as whiplash or a fall can cause disc damage.
- Repetitive Motion: Overuse or poor posture—especially from extended screen time—can strain the neck.
In most cases, a herniated cervical disc is caused by a combination of wear and tear and mechanical stress.
Common Symptoms to Watch For
A cervical herniated disc may cause:
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Pain radiating into the shoulders or arms
- Numbness or tingling in the arms or fingers
- Muscle weakness in the upper limbs
- Headaches (especially in the back of the head)
- Loss of coordination in severe cases
Symptoms can vary depending on the disc level affected. For example, a herniation at C5-C6 may affect bicep and wrist function, while C6-C7 could impact the triceps and fingers.
Who’s at Risk?
Certain factors increase your risk of developing a cervical disc herniation:
- Age: Most common between ages 30 and 50
- Genetics: Family history of disc problems
- Sedentary lifestyle: Poor posture weakens support muscles
- Smoking: Decreases disc health and hydration
- Heavy labor or repetitive movement jobs
According to the Cleveland Clinic, herniated discs affect up to 2% of the population each year, with cervical cases making up a significant portion.
Treatment Options at Ortho Sport & Spine Physicians
We focus on conservative and minimally invasive treatments to relieve symptoms and restore function.
Non-Surgical Options
- Physical Therapy: Helps improve posture, flexibility, and strength
- Medications: Anti-inflammatories or muscle relaxants for pain relief
- Epidural Steroid Injections: Reduce inflammation around the nerve root
- Activity Modification: Avoiding triggers while promoting healing
Advanced and Surgical Interventions
When conservative care is not enough, surgical options may be recommended such as:
- Endoscopic Discectomy: A minimally invasive procedure to remove the herniated disc portion
- Cervical Artificial Disc Replacement: Preserves motion and avoids spinal fusion
- Cervical Fusion: Stabilizes the spine when needed for severe cases
Get Neck Pain Relief Today
If you’re dealing with symptoms of a cervical herniated disc, don’t wait for it to worsen. At Ortho Sport & Spine Physicians, we combine expert diagnostics with individualized, evidence-based care to help you return to pain-free living.
We proudly serve patients across the country, including locations in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Louisiana, New Mexico, Arizona, and more. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and start your journey to recovery.
Posted on behalf of