It occurs when the discs between the vertebrae in the neck region slip out of place. This can put pressure on the nerves and cause symptoms such as pain, numbness or weakness. Cervical disc herniation It usually develops due to sudden movements, trauma or aging. Treatment can be done with rest, medications and physical therapy. Sometimes surgery may be required.
What are the symptoms of a neck hernia?
The most common symptom is pain in the neck area. This pain may increase with movement and usually affects one side. Cervical disc herniation, can cause pain in the back of the head. This pain is usually felt as a tension-type headache. It can cause pain that radiates to the shoulder and arm when the nerves are compressed. Numbness or pain in the arm, especially in a certain position, is a common symptom. When the nerves are compressed, numbness and tingling can occur in the arm or hand. This feeling can usually occur in one or both hands.
It can cause neck movements to become restricted. It may be difficult to turn your head or look up. Loss of strength in the arm and hand, cervical disc herniation It may become more frequent due to. It can be felt especially as the grip strength in the hands decreases. Sometimes it can cause pain in other parts of the body. For example, symptoms such as back pain or pain in the legs can also be seen. If these symptoms become severe, it is important to consult a health professional. It is a treatable condition. However, symptoms can be relieved with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
What Causes Cervical Disc Herniation?
As we age, the discs lose water, causing them to become less flexible. This can lead to a herniated disc. Cervical disc herniation One of the most common reasons for this is the wear and tear of the vertebrae and discs with age. If movements that put excessive load on the neck area continue for a long time, the discs between the vertebrae are strained. They slip. Sitting in front of the computer for a long time or sleeping in the wrong position can cause a hernia to develop. Blows to the neck, traffic accidents or sports injuries can cause a hernia.
This type of trauma can cause the disc to slip and compress the surrounding nerves. People with a family history of this condition are at higher risk of developing this disease. Genetic factors can lead to structural weaknesses and loss of elasticity in the discs. Excess weight puts more pressure on the spine. This can cause the discs to deteriorate over time, causing a herniated disc. Cervical disc herniation, It manifests itself with symptoms such as pain, numbness, loss of strength. Experiencing these symptoms requires consulting a specialist doctor.
How is a Cervical Disc Herniation Treated?
Various medications can be used to reduce pain and inflammation caused by a hernia. Painkillers (analgesics) are usually used for mild to moderate pain. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the most commonly preferred medications. Muscle relaxants may be given to reduce tension and spasms in the neck muscles. In cases of severe pain, doctors sometimes recommend corticosteroid injections.
Physiotherapy, cervical disc herniation plays a very important role in treatment. Exercises that strengthen the neck muscles and increase their flexibility are recommended. Physical therapists can use massage and manual techniques to relax the neck muscles. Hot and cold compresses can be applied to reduce muscle tension and control inflammation. For patients, wearing a neck brace can reduce pain and support the healing process by limiting head and neck movements. However, a neck brace should not be used for a long time because it can cause the muscles to weaken.
Correct posture plays an important role in treatment. Correct posture in daily life reduces pressure on the neck and helps relieve pain. Cervical disc herniation Patients with this condition should avoid lifting heavy objects and movements that strain the neck. In cases where conservative treatment methods fail, surgical intervention may be necessary. Surgical procedures may include the removal of the herniated disc or corrective procedures. The herniated disc is removed through a small surgical incision to relieve pressure on the nerves. In cases where the disc needs to be completely removed and replaced, surgery may be performed. Treatment is planned individually. Early diagnosis and treatment can speed up the patient's recovery process. It may reduce the likelihood of needing surgical intervention.