Cervical disc hernia (neck hernia)
What is it
The spine consists of several vertebral bodies. Between the vertebral bodies are intervertebral discs (discus). With a disc hernia, you have a bulging of an intervertebral disc. This bulge exerts pressure on the nerve that runs in the spinal canal.
Symptoms
You usually experience neck pain. If the bulge presses on a nerve, it causes nerve pain that can radiate to the arm.
Diagnosis
Treatment
An attempt is always made first to solve the problem in a nonoperative way. You will be given anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving medication. Combined with a period of rest, this may already reduce your symptoms. If that does not bring improvement, the doctor will proceed to cortisone-based infiltrations. You can read more about this treatment by clicking the link below.
When pain remains present after previous treatments, surgery may be necessary. This involves removing the herniated disc from the spinal canal through a small incision. A physical therapist will guide you during your recovery.
Want to know more about your rehabilitation?
Rehabilitation for this condition is part of the orthopaedic rehabilitation program. Click on the link below for more information.
Departments
Would you like more information or to make an appointment? If so, please visit the orthopaedics department.