Cervical Herniated Disc

A cervical herniated disc diagnosis is made through physical examination, medical history, and diagnostic tests. Your spine surgeon will assess your pain by observing symptoms like neck and hand pain, as well as weakness or numbness in the arms. If certain positions or movements aggravate the pain, it could indicate a cervical herniated disc.

They may also perform a neurological examination to assess your reflexes, muscle strength, and sensation. Diagnosis of a cervical herniated disc is critical in determining the type of herniated disc and its severity. Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies can be employed to evaluate nerve function in the arms and hands or detect muscle weakness and damage caused by a cervical herniated disc.

An accurate evaluation plays a pivotal role in identifying the specific type and severity of the cervical herniated disc. Without a proper diagnosis, patients risk worsening their symptoms by engaging in activities that exacerbate the condition.

The gravity of symptoms, the extent of the disc herniation, and the patient’s overall health all influence treatment alternatives for a cervical herniated disc. Here are some of the most common options for this condition:

• Non-surgical, conservative methods are usually the first-line treatments for a herniated cervical disc. Before you’re referred to a spine specialist, your primary physician recommends physical therapy, heat or cold compresses, rest, acupuncture, massage, and chiropractic care.
• Based on the pain intensity, muscle relaxants, epidural steroid injections, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed as part of the conservative treatment plan.
• Surgery may be necessary if cervical herniated disc symptoms persist despite conservative treatment and epidural steroid injections. Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) is the most common procedure for cervical herniated discs. Cervical disc arthroplasty, including posterior cervical laminotomy and discectomy, are also available surgical options.
• In severe cases, the damaged disc can be replaced with an artificial one to preserve the natural motion of the spine.

Treatment for cervical herniated discs should be tailored to the patient’s needs and condition. As such, a thorough evaluation is necessary to determine the most appropriate treatment.

Consult the Experienced Back Specialists at NJ Spine & Orthopedic Today

Back pain is a common problem affecting millions of Americans. Poor posture, injury, muscle strain, spinal stenosis, osteoporosis, herniated discs, etc., can all contribute to its onset. Treatment varies subject to the underlying cause, but numerous options are available, as outlined throughout this article. Anyone suspecting a herniated disc is the cause of their back pain should consult an orthopedic surgeon immediately.

NJ Spine & Orthopedic is a specialized medical center providing a broad spectrum of services to help patients with various back, neck, and spine disorders. Our skilled spine specialists and compassionate Concierge Team will gladly assess your condition and offer a personalized treatment plan to relieve your pain. Please call (866) 553-0612 or fill out our online contact form to speak to a doctor today.