Cervical disc herniation usually manifests itself with symptoms such as severe pain in the neck, numbness in the neck and shoulders, weakness in the arms and hands, dizziness and loss of balance. These symptoms can negatively affect daily activities and work performance, sometimes even seriously reducing a person’s quality of life. Cervical disc herniation is a serious condition that can negatively affect quality of life, but it can be controlled with the right treatment and management strategies.
Cervical disc herniation is a condition that occurs as a result of the weakening or damage of the discs in the cervical vertebrae. Cervical disc herniation symptoms may vary from person to person and their severity may vary. Cervical disc herniation symptoms are generally as follows:
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Numbness or tingling in arms and shoulders
- Dizziness and imbalance
- muscle weakness
- Headache
- Deformity in the cervical vertebrae or neck shape
These symptoms are typical of a cervical disc herniation, but they may occur in different ways in each person.
The methods used for the treatment of cervical disc herniation vary depending on the size and location of the hernia, the patient’s symptoms and general health condition. We can give the following answers to the question of what is good for cervical disc herniation:
- Physiotheraphy
- Medications to reduce pain and inflammation
- Injections to reduce nerve pain
- Intervention in rare cases
- Healthy lifestyle (nutrition and exercise)
In rare cases, cervical disc herniation surgery may be used as treatment. Cervical disc herniation surgery is performed to relieve pain and sensations by reducing the pressure on the nerve roots or spinal cord due to hernia and calcification, and to restore the efficient function of the muscles and other functions of the body. Cervical disc hernia surgery is not suitable for every patient. The decision for surgery is made based on the severity of the patient’s symptoms, the size and location of the hernia, the patient’s general health condition, and his/her response to other treatment methods.
What happens if cervical disc herniation is not treated?
If a herniated disc is left untreated, the condition can worsen and lead to serious health problems. If cervical disc herniation is not treated, it can lead to:
- A cervical disc hernia can compress the nerve roots coming out of the spinal cord. This can lead to symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling and muscle weakness.
- Large hernias or multiple hernias can compress the spinal cord. This condition can lead to serious symptoms such as weakness, numbness and paralysis in the arms and legs. Spinal cord compression requires immediate medical attention.
- A herniated disc means that it slips out of place and enters the spinal canal. This condition can cause paralysis by putting severe pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots.
- Untreated cervical disc herniation can lead to chronic pain.
- Chronic pain and dysfunction can lead to mental problems such as depression and anxiety.
This information is for informational purposes only. If you have a medical question, it is important to consult your doctor.