A herniated cervical disc occurs when there is compression of the intervertebral disc in the neck area between the C1 and C7 vertebrae, which can occur as a result of aging or a consequence of the position to sleep, sit or perform day to day. Occupations.
Depending on the severity of the cervical disc hernia, the forms of treatment may vary from the use of painkillers, physiotherapy sessions, exercise or, ultimately, spine surgery.
- Cervical disc hernia is not always curable.
- Especially in case of significant degeneration of the disc or vertebrae involved.
- But treatment can yield excellent results and the person may stop feeling pain with the available treatments.
- Most of the time.
- In the case of protruding or extruded herniated disk.
- Surgery is not necessary.
- See the types and classification of herniated disks.
Symptoms of cervical hernia occur when there is an increase in inflammation of the cervical discs, with neck pain, tingling and numbness. In addition, neck pain can, in some cases, extend to the arms and hands and, in more severe cases, cause a decrease in muscle strength and difficulty moving the neck. Learn more about cervical hernia symptoms.
As soon as the signs and symptoms of the cervical hernia are found, it is important to consult the orthopedist, as an assessment may be performed and imaging tests to confirm the cervical hernia are requested and the most appropriate treatment is initiated. .
Treatment of cervical hernia may vary depending on the severity of the person’s symptoms and whether or not there is nerve compression at the site. Thus, after the evaluation, the orthopedist may indicate:
Wearing a pack of warm water in your neck, 3 to 4 times a day, can help relieve pain and it’s great to do it at home, before performing the stretches indicated by your doctor or physical therapist, as they allow for a greater range of motion.
Your doctor may prescribe pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs to combat neck pain and headaches that can occur as a result of hernias. Ointments like Cataflan or Reumon Gel are good options for ironing in case of pain and are easily found in pharmacies and can be purchased without a prescription.
Cervical hernia treatment includes daily physical therapy sessions in which equipment can be used to help combat pain, improve symptoms and head movements. Also indicated are the characteristics that warm the neck area, which facilitates stretches and massages that reduce muscle stiffness.
Manual therapy techniques that use spinal manipulation and cervical traction are excellent options for increasing the space between the vertebrae, thus reducing compression of the spinal disc.
Stretching exercises are welcome from the start of treatment and can also be done at home, 2 or 3 times a day, as long as you feel that your neck is “stuck” and that there are difficulties making movements.
Clinical pilates exercises that are always guided by a physical therapist are excellent for treatment, where there is no more inflammation and pain and allows for better posture, as well as the position of the head and shoulders, which improve symptoms and prevent the herniated discs from getting worse.
Cervical hernia surgery is indicated when the patient experiences many pains that do not cease even with the use of anti-inflammatory and several sessions of physiotherapy. Cervical hernia surgery is delicate and does not mean a cure for the disease, but it can decrease symptoms by improving the patient’s quality of life.
See more information about cervical disc hernia in the video below: