Treatment of herniated discs in the cervical spine at our orthopaedic practices in Düsseldorf
The cervical spine forms the upper part of the spine and consists of 7 vertebrae. The discs themselves, made up of two parts, the outer fibrous ring and an inner gelatinous nucleus, sit between the cervical vertebrae and act, in effect, as the shock absorbers of the body.
With age, or because of incorrect loading or excessive strain, the discs lose elasticity. This can cause the outer covering of the disc to tear so that the inner gelatinous nucleus presses into the spinal canal. In such a case we speak of a herniated disc.
A herniated disc of the cervical spine or thoracic spine occurs considerably less often than a herniated disc of the lumbar spine. This is because the cervical spine does not carry as much weight as the lower sections of the spine and because it does not perform strongly force-intensive movements.
Symptoms of a herniated disc in the cervical spine and the treatment by experienced orthopaedic specialists at our orthopaedic practices in Düsseldorf
Alongside neck and shoulder pain and numbness in the arms or hands, the symptoms and complaints caused by a herniated disc of the cervical spine include:
- Episodes of dizziness
A herniated disc in the cervical spine can cause dizziness through pressure on nerves. - Kopfschmerzen
A herniated disc in the cervical spine can cause headaches when the disc presses on nerves or the spinal cord. These headaches, often referred to as cervicogenic headaches, usually begin in the neck and then spread to the head. - Gait disturbance
A herniated disc of the cervical spine can cause gait disturbance through pressure on the spinal cord. With such symptoms a doctor should be consulted immediately.
Treatment options for a herniated disc of the cervical spine
Your orthopaedic specialist in Düsseldorf can treat herniated discs both conservatively and surgically. Particularly with herniated discs of the cervical spine, treatment with anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving medication together with physiotherapy shows good prospects of success.
If conservative therapy brings no adequate improvement in pain and restricted movement, and complaints such as muscle weakness or neurological deficits such as paralysis or numbness also occur, a surgical procedure, known as cervical disc surgery, is indicated.
Two surgical methods come into consideration for disc surgery: spinal fusion (spondylodesis) or the use of a disc prosthesis, through which the mobility and flexibility of the affected sections of the spine can be preserved.
Efficient and modern treatment methods for calcific shoulder tendinitis
Competent orthopaedic specialists in Düsseldorf – several practices and a high success rate
Frequently Asked Questions: Cervical Disc Herniation
What should you avoid with a herniated disc of the cervical spine?
You should avoid abrupt, jerky movements and heavy lifting. You should also not overload the cervical spine and should follow the prescribed physiotherapy and medication consistently.
How quickly does a herniated disc of the cervical spine heal?
Healing of a herniated disc varies according to severity and can take from a few weeks to several months. For some people it can take longer.
Can you go to work with a herniated disc of the cervical spine?
Whether you can go to work with a herniated disc depends on the severity of the herniation and the type of work. With physically demanding tasks it could be difficult.
Which sport is good for the cervical spine?
Gentle sports such as yoga, swimming and Pilates can be helpful in strengthening and mobilising the cervical spine.
When does a nerve recover after a herniated disc of the cervical spine?
Nerve recovery after a herniated disc can take from a few weeks up to a year or longer, depending on the severity of the nerve compression and on individual healing capacity.
What degree of disability applies with a herniated disc of the cervical spine?
The percentages can vary, but a herniated disc of the cervical spine can result in a degree of disability of 20 to 50 per cent, depending on the severity of the symptoms and the impairment.
What does a herniated disc in the cervical spine feel like?
A herniated disc in the cervical spine can lead to neck pain, tingling or numbness in the arms, headaches and, where applicable, difficulty walking.
Is cycling good for the cervical spine?
Yes, cycling can be good for the cervical spine as long as you maintain correct posture. It strengthens the back muscles and improves general endurance and flexibility.
What should be avoided with cervical spine syndrome?
With cervical spine syndrome you should avoid abrupt or extreme neck movements, sitting or standing in the same position for long periods, and stress. It is also important to correct poor posture.
Does health insurance cover treatment for a cervical disc herniation?
Examination, imaging, physiotherapy, pain management and any necessary surgery on the cervical spine are covered by statutory health insurance. Some additional procedures such as certain injection techniques may be private services. We tell you the cost in Düsseldorf in advance.
How long does a cervical disc herniation take to heal?
About nine out of ten disc herniations of the cervical spine improve considerably under conservative treatment within six to twelve weeks. After surgery, light everyday activity is usually possible after two to four weeks. The course depends on the size and position of the herniation.
Which exercises help with a cervical disc herniation?
Gentle mobilisation of the cervical spine, strengthening of the deep neck muscles and exercises for an upright posture at the workplace usually help. Avoid jerky movements and strong overextension. Start only after medical assessment and under physiotherapeutic guidance.
More treatments for Spine Surgery
Complaints rarely come alone. We also offer these treatments from the same area in Düsseldorf.