Herniated cervical discs can be a real pain in the neck

If you’re one of many who have suffered from a herniated cervical disc, you know just how badly it can restrict your movement, not to mention your quality of life. Cervical discs are the cushions between the vertebrae in the upper back and neck. It becomes herniated when the gel-like center of the disc ruptures through a weak area in the tough outer wall, similar to the filling being squeezed out of a jelly doughnut. 

At the office of J. Turner Vosseller, MD, spinal problems are our specialty. We are devoted to the prevention and diagnosis of disorders such as herniated discs, providing treatment options that can relieve the pain and restore function to the affected area. 

A cervical herniated disc is caused by excessive stress being placed on the disc, whether as a result of heavy lifting or other damaging motions. Symptoms develop when the damaged disc pushes into the spinal canal or nerve roots, such as:

• pain that radiates down the arm to the hand or fingers
• numbness or tingling in the shoulder, arm, or hands
• weakness of hand and or arms

All treatments for a cervical herniated disc are designed to help resolve pain. The condition usually resolves itself over time, sometimes with the help of anti-inflammatory drugs and steroid infections to help reduce the swelling. Physical therapy can also be effective for relieving the pressure on the nerve root. But if the pain persists and grows severe, surgical options are available to correct the condition.

Committed to pain-free living 

At the office of J. Turner Vosseller, MD, we’re dedicated to providing the highest quality of skilled and compassionate orthopedic spinal care. For more information on our office and the many services we provide, give us a call today.

By J. Turner Vosseller

December 30, 2020