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Treatment of Cervical Spine (C-Spine) Disc Herniation

The cervical spine forms the upper part of the spine and consists of 7 vertebrae. The intervertebral discs themselves, which are composed of two parts, the outer fibrous ring and an inner gelatinous core, are located between the cervical vertebrae and function as the body's shock absorbers.

The intervertebral discs lose elasticity with age or due to improper loading or excessive strain. This can cause the outer shell of the disc to tear and the inner gelatinous core to protrude into the spinal canal. In such a case, it is referred to as a disc herniation.

A disc herniation in the cervical spine (C-Spine) or thoracic spine is much less common than a disc herniation in the lumbar spine (L-Spine). This is because the cervical spine does not bear as much weight as the lower parts of the spine and does not perform highly forceful movements.

Symptoms of a Cervical Disc Herniation

The symptoms and complaints caused by a cervical disc herniation include, in addition to neck and shoulder pain and numbness in the arms or hands, the following:

  • Dizziness
    A cervical disc herniation can cause dizziness due to pressure on the nerves.
  • Headaches
    A cervical disc herniation can cause headaches if the disc presses on nerves or the spinal cord. These headaches, often referred to as cervicogenic headaches, usually start in the neck and then spread to the head.
  • Gait disturbances
    A cervical disc herniation can cause gait disturbances due to pressure on the spinal cord. If such symptoms occur, a doctor should be consulted immediately.
Therapy Options for a Cervical Disc Herniation

Therapy Options for a Cervical Disc Herniation

Your orthopedic specialist in Düsseldorf can treat disc herniations both conservatively and surgically. Especially for herniated discs in the cervical spine, treatment with anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving medications, as well as physiotherapeutic measures, shows good prospects of success.

If conservative therapy does not lead to adequate improvement in pain and movement restrictions, and symptoms such as muscle weakness or neurological deficits like paralysis or numbness occur, a surgical intervention, known as cervical disc surgery, is indicated.

Two surgical methods are considered for a disc operation: spinal fusion (spondylodesis) or the use of a disc prosthesis, which can maintain the mobility and flexibility of the affected spinal segments.

Efficient and modern treatment methods for calcific shoulder tendinitis play

Efficient and modern treatment methods for calcific shoulder tendinitis

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

You should avoid abrupt, jerky movements and heavy lifting. Additionally, you should not overstrain the cervical spine and should consistently follow the prescribed physiotherapy and medication.
The healing of a cervical disc herniation varies depending on the severity and can take from a few weeks to several months. For some people, it may take longer.
Whether you can go to work with a cervical disc herniation depends on the severity of the herniation and the type of work. It might be difficult for physically demanding jobs.
Gentle sports like yoga, swimming, and Pilates can be helpful in strengthening and mobilizing the cervical spine.
Nerve recovery after a cervical disc herniation can take from a few weeks to a year or longer, depending on the severity of the nerve compression and individual healing capacity.
The percentages can vary, but a cervical disc herniation can lead to a disability rating of 20 to 50 percent, depending on the severity of symptoms and impairment.
A cervical disc herniation can cause neck pain, tingling or numbness in the arms, headaches, and possibly difficulty walking.
Yes, cycling can be good for the cervical spine as long as you maintain proper posture. It strengthens the back muscles and improves overall endurance and flexibility.
With cervical spine syndrome, you should avoid abrupt or extreme neck movements, prolonged sitting or standing in the same position, and stress. It is also important to correct poor posture.
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