Herniated Cervical Disc

What is Herniated Cervical Disc?

A herniated cervical disc is the result of the annulus (the outer layer of the intervertebral disc) rupturing or tearing. If the annulus ruptures or tears the nuclear material inside the disc will impinge on the cervical nerve roots and the thecal sac (which contains the cerebrospinal fluid) resulting in pain, paraesthesia – such as tingling or prickling – and decreased range of motion. Herniated cervical discs can be confused with thoracic outlet syndrome.

Normal neck motion results in the nucleus pressing against the annular fibres, however excessive minor repetitive motion or traumatic motion such as whiplash injuries and skiing injuries can produce a sudden herniated cervical disc. The aging process and wear and tear on your spine are other ways that can cause a herniated disc in the neck. A herniated disc can also be caused by repetitive activities or an injury to the spine. The most common intervertebral discs to become herniated are the ones impacting on the C5 and C6 nerve roots.

Symptoms include numbness or tingling in the shoulder or arm, and dull or sharp pain in the neck or between the shoulder blades, radiating down the arm. Severe night pain is common and forward flexion or bending of the neck will exacerbate the discomfort. Weakness in the neck, shoulder and arm muscles as well as decreased reflexes may be experienced.

If you’re suffering from Herniated Cervical Disc, we have a team who is ready to help you and get you on the road to recovery. Book an appointment with Precision Health today!

Call us on (02) 9639 7337 or book online.

Zielinska, N. (2021). Risk Factors of Intervertebral Disc Pathology—A Point of View Formerly and Today—A Review. Journal of Clinical Medicine., 10(3), 409–418.

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