Cervical Herniated Disc
Cervical herniated disc; is the condition that occurs when the discs between the cervical vertebrae shift toward the spinal canal and put pressure on the nerves going to the arm and on the spinal cord.
Between the cervical vertebrae, there are cushion-like discs with a jelly-like consistency that prevent the vertebrae from rubbing against each other. The discs have a gelatinous center (nucleus pulposus) surrounded by a tough and fibrous capsule (annulus fibrosus). In situations such as aging and exposure to trauma, these cushions begin to wear down. The outer tough and fibrous capsule gradually becomes thinner and tears after a sudden reverse movement. The inner gelatinous material slips outward through these tears, exits from the spinal cord, and puts pressure on the nerve that goes to our arm and gives movement commands to those areas or enables us to perceive sensation in those areas. As a result of this pressure, we feel neck-arm pain, numbness and tingling in the arm, and sometimes weakness.
How can a cervical herniated disc be prevented?
How can a cervical herniated disc be prevented?
To help prevent a cervical herniated disc, it is important to exercise regularly, use proper posture and positions, reduce stress, and avoid being overweight. In addition, doing exercises that strengthen the neck and back muscles may help reduce neck and back pain.
What activities can people living with a cervical herniated disc do?
People with a cervical herniated disc can strengthen their neck and back muscles by doing light exercises. Low-impact activities such as yoga and pilates may improve flexibility and endurance. However, excessive activity, heavy lifting, or high-impact exercises may negatively affect the herniation.
Is a cervical herniated disc dangerous?
A cervical herniated disc may be a condition that can cause serious health problems, but it is generally not dangerous if treated. If left untreated, a cervical herniated disc may lead to serious consequences such as spinal cord damage, nerve damage, and permanent disability. For this reason, it is important for people with cervical herniated disc symptoms to consult a healthcare professional.
How do we know if we have a cervical herniated disc?
Symptoms of a cervical herniated disc may include neck pain, shoulder pain, arm pain, numbness or tingling, weakness, and headache. These symptoms may also be accompanied by limited neck movement, neck stiffness, or cracking sounds during neck movements. If a cervical herniated disc is suspected, it is necessary to consult a healthcare professional.
Does heat application help a cervical herniated disc?
Heat application may be used to help relieve the symptoms of a cervical herniated disc. Heat may reduce muscle spasms and ease pain by increasing blood circulation. However, heat application does not help reduce the inflammation caused by the herniation or treat the herniation itself.
