Table of contents:
- Definition
- What is cervical disc syndrome?
- How common is cervical disc syndrome?
- Signs & symptoms
- What are the signs and symptoms of a cervical disc?
- When should I see a doctor?
- Cause
- What causes cervical disc syndrome?
- Risk factors
- What increases my risk for cervical disc syndrome?
- Drugs & Medicines
- What are my treatment options for cervical disc syndrome?
- What are the usual tests for cervical disc syndrome?
- Home remedies
- What are some lifestyle changes or home remedies that can be done to treat cervical disc syndrome?
Definition
What is cervical disc syndrome?
Cervical disc is a painful condition that affects the neck. The neck (cervical) in the spinal column is made of 7 bones (vertebrae) that are separated by a disc, which is shaped like a pillow.
These dics or discs are like shock absorbers for the head and neck. Its function is to cushion the bones and help the head and neck to be upright and bend. Cervical diss is a painful condition in the neck of the spine.
How common is cervical disc syndrome?
Cervical disc disease is common, occurs in people with jobs like office workers and often occurs in middle-aged people.
Signs & symptoms
What are the signs and symptoms of a cervical disc?
Signs you have a cervical disc are neck pain, tingling, numbness possibly reaching your shoulders, upper back, arms, or hands. Certain cervical disk signs sometimes make people weak, clumsy, and have difficulty walking. Pain in the disc protruding in the neck (commonly called a herniated disk) will worsen when moving and coughing or laughing.
There may be other symptoms not listed above. If you have any questions about this sign, consult your doctor.
When should I see a doctor?
If you have the above signs or symptoms or have difficulty walking, are weak, can't move your hands and feet, or lose control of your bowel or bladder, consult your doctor. Every body acts differently from one another. Always discuss with your doctor to find the best solution for your condition.
Cause
What causes cervical disc syndrome?
Cervical disc is a condition caused by degenerative changes (damage to tissue in the body) that normally occurs as you get older.
Poor posture and overwork, such as lifting weights frequently for example, can worsen the condition of the neck or spine. The disc is slowly becoming worn, fuller, and flatter. When the disc space narrows so that the vertebrae are fused, the bone may start pressing on the bone marrow or nerve roots. Because the nerves are compressed, they can eventually become irritated. It is not uncommon for pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness may appear.
Risk factors
What increases my risk for cervical disc syndrome?
Cervical disc is a condition that can be affected by several risk factors, including:
- Age: middle-aged people are at a higher risk of developing a cervical disc.
- Jobs like office workers or teachers.
- Have rheumatoid arthritis or osteoporosis.
Drugs & Medicines
The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.
What are my treatment options for cervical disc syndrome?
Cervical disc is a condition that most cases can be treated with physical therapy, pain control, and anti-inflammatory drugs. A specialist (orthopedic surgeon, anesthetist, or neurosurgeon) may help with treatment. Conservative treatment can also be done with physical therapy, including compressing the affected area with a hot towel, cervical traction, and special exercises.
An anesthetist can inject steroids and sedatives into the cervical spine to help relieve pain.
Symptoms often go away after a few weeks. Surgery is usually a last resort if other treatments don't relieve symptoms.
What are the usual tests for cervical disc syndrome?
The doctor makes the diagnosis from a physical examination and X-ray of the cervical spine. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the neck and electromyography or nerve conduction velocity test (EMG / NCV), an electrical test of nerves and muscles, may also be performed.
Home remedies
What are some lifestyle changes or home remedies that can be done to treat cervical disc syndrome?
The lifestyle and home remedies below might help treat a cervical disc:
- Follow the doctor's directions. Do not use over-the-counter medications or stop medication if symptoms improve
- Maintain good posture when sitting and walking.
- Always wear a seat belt when driving a motor vehicle.
- Place a pillow under your head and neck while lying on the bed.
- Exercise daily according to doctor's approval. You can stretch and bend your neck. Maintain ideal body weight.
- Call your doctor if your symptoms get much worse or you have new weaknesses.
- Reduce trauma to the cervical spine. Wear protective gear if exercising that requires direct contact.
If you have any questions, consult your doctor for the best solution to your problem.
