Cervical Disc Herniation

Cervical Disc Herniation

Cervical discs serve to protect the delicate spinal cord and cervical nerves that exit through the spaces (foramina) between these vertebrae. In order to prevent the friction related damage to cervical vertebrae and to ensure the ease of movement, these cervical vertebrae are protected by cervical discs that serve as shock absorbers.

Disc herniation occurs when the delicate spinal discs sustain damage due to the natural wear and tear over time, which can lead to displacement or misalignment.

What is cervical disc herniation?

Cervical disc herniation refers to the herniation or tearing of cervical discs as a result of a cracked vertebral capsule. Misalignment can lead to pinched nerves, increasing the likelihood of injury and pressure, which may result in various signs and symptoms.

Most commonly reported cervical disc herniations occur at C5-6 and C6 –C7

Sign and symptoms:

Sign and symptoms of cervical disc herniation are:

–          Pain across the supply of affected nerve

–          Numbness

–          Weakness of muscle movement depending upon the nerve involved (cervical nerves supply shoulder, neck, upper limb and chest region).

The area of involvement varies with the location and severity of damage to cervical vertebrae.

How does it happen?

In order to maintain some degree of flexibility and movement across the vertebrae (gliding movements) that help in locomotion and weight bearing of the body, the space between two successive vertebrae is separated by spinal discs and a fluid that act as shock absorbers. However, as a result of aging, the amount of fluid decreases and degenerative changes destroy spinal discs. Due to the degenerative changes, the vertebrae lose their ability to sustain trauma, pressure and stress and undergo:

–          Trauma or tearing of the vertebra capsule.

–          Cracking of capsule

–          Expulsion of nucleus pulpous

And other similar alterations that impact the integrity of nerves passing through these foramina, potentially to noticeable nerve complications.

Certain factors can increase the likelihood of early degenerative changes in the discs, which may contribute to cervical herniation.

–          Smoking

–          Advancing age is one of the significant risk factors that is directly related to wear and tear changes in the vertebrae, with most cases reported among 35 to 55 years of age.

–          Trauma or strain to cervical vertebrae also leads to aggravated pace of injury or degenerative changes.

–          Some occupational activities also increase the risk of damage and degeneration. These include porters, weight lifters and body builders.

Treatment of Cervical Disc Herniation:

A highly effective treatment for many people suffering from Cervical Disc Herniation of the Neck is Spinal Decompression Therapy combined with Physiotherapy.  Follow the link for Additional information on how Spinal Decompression Therapy for Neck Pain.