Cervical Herniated Disc

There are seven cervical vertebrae. The cervical spine extends from the base of the skull, C1 (atlas) through C7. Between the vertebrae are intervertebral discs that act as shock absorbers and allow neck flexibility and movement. They stabilize the neck and allow it to move smoothly from side to side.

Cervical nerve roots are the sensory and motor nerves that originate from the spinal cord in the neck region (cervical spine) and branch out to supply the neck, arms, and upper torso. They transmit sensory information and motor signals between the brain and the arms, shoulders, and upper torso.

A cervical herniated disc is a cartilage structure composed of an inner gel-like center of the disc (nucleus pulposus) and the outer fibrous ring (annulus fibrosus). A herniated disc occurs when the nucleus pulposus breaks through the fibrous ring due to a tear or rupture, leading to displacement that can compress and irritate nearby nerve roots or the spinal cord.

Causes include:

1. Age-related degeneration: As people age, with wear and tear, their intervertebral discs lose hydration and elasticity, making them less flexible and more susceptible to tearing.
2. Trauma: A sudden, forceful movement can cause a herniated disc.
3. Physical strain: Heavy lifting or twisting of the upper body can cause pressure on the cervical spine, leading to disc herniation.
4. Repetitive activities: Activities that strain the neck and spine continuously, such as certain sports or occupational tasks, can increase the risk.
5. Genetic predisposition: Some individuals may have a genetic tendency toward developing disc problems.

A herniation can occur acutely or more chronically.

• Chronic herniations occur when the disc degenerates and dries out as part of the natural aging process. Symptoms tend to develop gradually and are less severe.
• Acute herniations are usually the result of trauma, causing the inner gel-like center to squeeze out through a defect in the tough outer covering.

Symptoms of a cervical herniated disc can vary depending on the location of the herniation and whether a nerve root or the spinal cord is compressed. Common symptoms include:

• Neck pain may be the first symptom and can range from mild to severe.
• Radiating pain: Pain can spread (radiate) into the shoulders, arms, hands, and fingers, often on one side of the body. Sometimes, electrical shock symptoms can travel down the spine and into the legs.
• Numbness or tingling: If the disc presses on a nerve root, numbness and tingling can occur in the shoulders or arms and may run down to the fingers.
• Weakness: Muscle weakness in the shoulders, arms, hands, or fingers can make it difficult to grasp items or perform tasks.
• Difficulty with coordination: Severe cases involving spinal cord compression can lead to difficulty walking, stumbling, loss of balance, or using the hands or arms. Dexterity and fine motor use of the hands and fingers may be affected.