Cervical disk protrusion

26 March 1403

Confirmed by Dr. Samane Abdullah Pour

The content of this article is only to increase the awareness of users. Before taking any action, consult the doctors of Afoz Roshan for treatment.

Modern life has subjected the neck to constant pressure more than ever before. Long hours of working on the computer, frequent use of mobile phones and maintaining improper postures while resting or performing daily activities are all considered to be the main causes of neck pain. This pain may be temporary or lead to more serious problems such as a herniated cervical disc. Knowing the reasons and ways to prevent this condition can play an important role in maintaining the health of the spine and preventing chronic pain.

Cervical disc protrusion is treated at Oghoz Roshan Physiotherapy Center with the use of experienced specialists, various treatment methods and the latest devices. To book a free consultation, call 02188686800.

In the following, we are going to examine the symptoms of cervical disc protrusion and its treatment methods. So stay with us to provide you with useful information in this field.

Anatomy of cervical disc; Small but effective in body movement and balance

The spine consists of 24 movable vertebrae, each of which plays a vital role in the stability and movement of the body. The cervical spine, which consists of seven vertebrae from C1 to C7, is responsible for supporting the weight of the head (about 10 pounds). In addition to maintaining balance, this structure allows for various movements such as bending forward and backward, turning 180 degrees, and moving from one side to the other.

Structure and function of cervical intervertebral discs

Cervical vertebrae are separated from each other by intervertebral discs. These discs act as shock absorbers and prevent the bones from rubbing against each other. Each disk consists of two parts:

Outer annulus (annulus fibrosus): A fibrous structure that holds the disc in place and connects the vertebrae.
Gelatin nucleus (nucleus pulposus): a soft part filled with liquid that is responsible for absorbing the pressure applied to the vertebrae.

The role of spinal nerves in neck function

At each level of the disc, a pair of spinal nerves leave the spinal cord and branch to the body organs. These nerves act as a advanced communication network between the brain and other parts of the body and transmit nerve messages related to sensation and movement.

The importance of the cervical disc of the 5th and 6th vertebrae

One of the areas prone to damage in the cervical spine is the cervical disc of the 5th and 6th vertebrae. This part is under more pressure than other parts due to its vital role in the movement of the hands and the transmission of nerve messages to the upper limb. Also, the high movement of the cervical disc of the 5th and 6th vertebra compared to the rest of the discs is an important cause of injury. Disc protrusion in this area can lead to neck pain, numbness in the arm and muscle weakness.

Correct understanding of the function of cervical discs and taking care of them can help prevent problems such as disc protrusion and chronic neck pain.

cervical disc protrusion; A risk you should not ignore

A herniated cervical disc occurs when the gel-like center of the disc is pushed out through a tear in the outer wall of the cervical disc, known as the annulus. This condition, also known as cervical disc herniation, usually causes pressure on the spinal nerves and causes inflammation in this area.

The gel-like substance released from the disc creates a kind of chemical irritation and causes pain, numbness or muscle weakness in the neck, shoulders and even hands. The severity of the symptoms depends on the extent of the protrusion and its location. In some cases, the patient experiences severe pain that may spread along the nerve's path in the arms. One thing to note is that over time, the body usually naturally tries to shrink the herniated disc and reduce the resulting inflammation. For this reason, many patients experience partial or complete recovery within six weeks. Of course, this process is not the same for all people and it may take more time depending on the severity of the protrusion, the patient's physical condition and lifestyle.

Conservative treatments such as physical therapy for a herniated cervical disc, anti-inflammatory medications, and controlled rest can help speed the healing process. If there is no improvement and the pressure on the nerves continues, more advanced treatment methods may be needed. Taking proper care of the neck, performing corrective movements and observing ergonomic principles play an important role in preventing further injuries and faster recovery of this condition.

cervical disc signs; Anesthesia and muscle weakness

Symptoms of cervical disc protrusion are different depending on age, physical condition and severity of injury. Some people have only mild pain, while others experience numbness, muscle weakness, or dizziness. Ignoring these signs can aggravate the problem.

If you see these symptoms, it is necessary to see a physiotherapist to prevent the progression of the disease and choose the appropriate treatment.

Neck pain and reduced range of motion

Cervical disc protrusion is often associated with pain in the neck area, which increases over time. This pain is felt more when changing the position of the head or after sitting for a long time. Some people notice stiffness and limited movement when turning their head. Even bending the head to read a book or use a mobile phone sometimes causes more discomfort.

Spreading pain to shoulders and arms

The pain caused by this condition is not limited to the neck and spreads to the shoulders, arms and fingers. In some cases, a shooting or burning sensation is felt along the arm, usually more severe on one side of the body. People who spend a lot of time behind the computer are usually familiar with this pain. Sometimes this pain is aggravated at night and causes sleep disturbances.

Numbness and tingling in the hands and fingers

The pressure caused by the protruding disc on the nerves causes numbness or tingling in the hands and fingers. It becomes more difficult to perform delicate tasks such as buttoning clothes or typing, and there is a feeling of weakness in the fingers. In some cases, people notice a loss of hand control when grasping objects, so that the pen may even fall out of their hand.

Muscle weakness in arms and hands

In more advanced cases, the strength of the arm muscles decreases. People also feel weak when lifting light objects and some objects drop from their hands. Everyday tasks such as carrying a small bag or opening a bottle cap will be more difficult than before.

Persistent and annoying headaches

Pressure on the neck nerves causes headaches that start from the back of the head and continue to the temples. Prolonged use of a mobile phone or sitting in an improper position aggravates this pain. In some people, these types of headaches appear with a feeling of heaviness in the head and reduced concentration.

Camp and stiffness of neck and shoulder muscles

The feeling of dryness and tightness in the neck and shoulders is another symptom of this condition. Sitting for a long time, driving or sleeping in an improper position aggravates this problem.

Some people notice severe neck stiffness after waking up, and it takes several minutes before they can move their head easily.

Increased pain when moving or sitting for a long time

Some specific movements or a sudden change in position cause increased pain in the neck and arm area. Sitting for a long time, especially at a desk, increases the discomfort and at the end of the day, it creates a feeling of extreme pain and fatigue. Driving for a long time or studying in an improper position are among the factors that increase the severity of this problem.

Dizziness and imbalance

In some cases, cervical disc protrusion is accompanied by vertigo. Turning the head quickly or looking up or down suddenly creates a feeling of instability and imbalance. This problem causes a decrease in self-confidence in some people when walking in crowded environments.

Decreased concentration and constant fatigue

Continuous pain in the neck affects mental concentration and reduces daily energy levels. People who suffer from this problem feel tired earlier than others when working or studying and their productivity decreases. Sometimes this fatigue is observed along with abnormal sleepiness during the day.

Intensification of pain when coughing or sneezing

Some people experience a sudden increase in pain in the neck and arms when they cough or sneeze. This occurs due to pressure on the spine and may be accompanied by sudden jerking. In cases where the severity of the disc protrusion is greater, this pain is longer and lasts longer.

If these symptoms are observed, it is necessary to see a physiotherapist in order to prevent the progression of the disease and choose an appropriate treatment method to reduce pain and improve neck function.

Causes of neck disc protrusion; Investigation of dangerous factors

Cervical disc protrusion can occur for various reasons and lifestyle, daily habits and even genetic factors play a role in its occurrence. Being aware of these reasons helps to prevent this complication and maintain neck health by correcting some behaviors. In the following, we will examine the most important factors affecting cervical disc protrusion.

Factors Explanations Increase in the loss of fluid in the discs and decrease in flexibility with age. Incorrect body position, constant bending over the mobile phone or computer, high pressure on the neck. Carrying heavy objects, improper pressure while lifting things, damage to the discs. Impact and sudden injuries, accidents, falls or severe impact on the neck. Sudden movements of the neck, severe rotation or incorrect sports movements. Sedentary lifestyle, weakness of the neck muscles and increased pressure on the discs. Obesity and overweight, increasing pressure on the spine. and cervical discs. Genetics and family history, hereditary talent for neck disc problems. Chronic stress and tension, continuous muscle contraction and pressure on the discs. Continuous work with a computer or mobile phone, keeping the head down and creating long-term pressure.

Treatment of cervical disc with physiotherapy; Specialized techniques to reduce inflammation and pressure

Physiotherapy is one of the best methods for neck disc treatment without surgery, which helps reduce pain and improve neck function. In this method, first the patient's condition is evaluated and a plan is designed according to his condition. Corrective exercises play an important role in strengthening the neck muscles and increasing flexibility, which reduces the pressure on the nerves. Also, manual techniques such as massage therapy and gentle stretching help to improve blood circulation and reduce inflammation.

In addition, methods such as electrotherapy, laser therapy and ultrasound are used to reduce pain and speed up the healing process. Cervical disc physiotherapy not only relieves symptoms, but also prevents pain from returning. By learning proper exercises, patients can correct their posture and prevent excessive pressure on the spine.

Afq Roshan, the best physiotherapy clinic in Tehran offers specialized cervical disc treatment services using advanced methods and a team of experienced specialists. If you are looking for the best treatment methods in Tehran, we are by your side to reduce your pain and improve your quality of life.

Worst and best sleeping position for cervical disc

Choosing the worst and best sleeping position for cervical disc plays an important role in reducing pressure and preventing pain from worsening. The best sleeping position for people with cervical disc protrusion is to sleep on their back with a medical pillow that maintains the natural curvature of the neck.

Using a pillow that is too long or too flat can increase the pressure on the spine. Also, sleeping on the side by placing a suitable pillow between the neck and shoulders helps to maintain the correct body position.

Sleeping on the stomach should be avoided, because this position causes abnormal rotation of the neck and increases the pressure on the discs. In addition to sleeping position, choosing the right mattress and maintaining correct sleeping habits also have a great effect on reducing symptoms.

Exercise for neck disc; Simple but effective movements to improve flexibility

Exercise plays an important role in reducing pain and improving neck function in people with disc protrusion. Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises can help reduce pressure on the neck nerves, improve flexibility, and strengthen the muscles that support the neck.

Of course, neck disc exercises should be done under the supervision of a physiotherapist to avoid inappropriate movements that may aggravate the injury. To learn more about useful exercises and the correct way to do them, the article Exercises for the cervical disc is useful? examine.

Neck disc and left hand pain

Left arm pain is not always related to heart problems. One of the common reasons is shoulder, neck and neck disc protrusion. This complication causes pain, numbness or tingling in the left hand by pressing on the cervical nerves and can spread to the shoulder and arm. Sometimes this problem is associated with muscle weakness.

Improper body position, repetitive neck movements and prolonged sitting are aggravating factors. If you have these symptoms, it is very important to know the cause and appropriate treatment methods. For more information, read the neck disc and left arm pain article.

Effects of cervical disc protrusion

Cervical disc protrusion can cause serious and long-term problems if not diagnosed and treated in time. The severity of these complications depends on the degree of disc damage and the pressure on the nerves. In the following, we examine the most important complications of this complication:

Chronic neck and shoulder pain Numbness and tingling in hands and fingers
Muscle weakness in arms and hands
Frequent headaches caused by pressure on the nerves
Limited movement of the neck and reduced flexibility
Sleep disturbance due to pain and discomfort
Balance problems and dizziness
Shooting pain in the arm and fingers
Decreasing the quality of life and limitations in daily activities
In severe cases, dysfunction of the spinal cord

Knowing about how to rest the cervical disc and implementing solutions will not be ineffective in reducing pain and recovery.

Diagnosis of cervical disc protrusion; The first important step for treatment

To accurately diagnose cervical disc protrusion, the doctor first performs a complete physical examination. In this evaluation, the range of motion of the neck, the amount of pain, the strength and flexibility of the muscles are examined. Also, the patient's nerve reactions, reflexes and sense of touch are evaluated in order to determine the amount of disc pressure on the nerves.

One of the common tests is the straight leg raising test, which is mostly used to check the involvement of the sciatic nerve in the lumbar region, but in some cases, the doctor also uses similar tests to check the disc pressure on the cervical nerves. If necessary, a specialized neurological examination is performed to identify neurological disorders caused by cervical disc protrusion.

In addition to a physical examination, imaging tests help make a more accurate diagnosis. These tests include:

MRI magnetic resonance imaging: the best method to observe intervertebral discs, the degree of protrusion and its effect on nerves.
CT scan: cross-sectional imaging for detailed examination of bone and disc structures.
X-ray: helping to detect changes in vertebrae and the possibility of spinal instability.
Myelogram: injection of contrast material to observe compression of spinal nerves.
Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction study: investigation of nerve function and injury rate due to disc pressure.

Accurate diagnosis of cervical disc protrusion is the key to choosing the best treatment method. By visiting the best physiotherapy center in West Tehran, you can benefit from specialized evaluation and modern treatment methods to improve the condition of the neck and reduce symptoms.

A summary of the most important points of cervical disc protrusion until its treatment

Cervical disc protrusion occurs when the intervertebral disc is damaged and puts pressure on the nerves. This problem can cause neck pain, numbness, tingling and muscle weakness in the shoulder and hand. Improper body posture, repetitive neck movements and aging are the main reasons.

For treatment, various methods are suggested, including drug therapy, physiotherapy, and in severe cases, surgery. Physiotherapy at Afoz Roshan Center using specialized techniques such as corrective exercises, massage therapy, electrotherapy and laser helps reduce pain and improve neck function.

To get an appointment and consultation with our specialists, call 02188686800. Also, you can share your questions and experiences. We will definitely respond as soon as possible.

What is cervical disc protrusion?

A herniated cervical disc occurs when the intervertebral disc is damaged and puts pressure on the nerves, which may cause pain and numbness in the neck and hands.

What are the symptoms of cervical disc protrusion?

A herniated cervical disc can cause neck pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the shoulders, arms, and hands. In some cases, headache and reduced neck movement are also seen.

Is cervical disc protrusion dangerous?

Cervical disc protrusion is usually caused by aging, repetitive movements, incorrect neck posture, or sudden pressure on the spine.

Can cervical disc protrusion be treated with physiotherapy?

Yes, physiotherapy with specialized exercises, stretching and electrotherapy helps reduce pain, control inflammation and improve neck movement.

What is the cause of cervical disc protrusion?

Cervical disc herniation is manageable in mild cases, but if it puts too much pressure on the nerves, it may cause muscle weakness or serious sensory problems.

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