When a cervical disc becomes herniated, the disc can press on nerves and cause pain, numbness and tingling. A disc can be damaged by a fall or accident, repeated straining of the neck, lifting weights, violent twisting and can occur without any specific mechanism of injury.
Symptoms of a Herniated Disc in Your Neck:
- Neck Pain- an achy pain
- Numbness, tingling, pain, weakness in one or both arms
- Cannot straighten your neck without extreme pain
Diagnosis of a Herniated Neck Disc:
Your physician will evaluate your injury by taking a complete medical history, including mechanism of injury, prior injuries, and symptoms. Your physician will perform a complete examination of your neck. Your physician may also send you for an MRI or CT scan.
Treatment for Herniated Neck Disc:
- Use ice for 20 minutes on with 40 minutes off for the first 72 hours
- Heat Pack
- Take an anti-inflammatory or pain medication prescribed by your physician
- A neck collar or neck brace may be issued to help relieve muscle spasms
- Massage
- Traction – relieves pressure in the neck by putting the bones and muscles under tension
Rehabilitation For Herniated Neck Disc:
Your physical therapist will work with you to reduce pain and strengthen the muscles that support your neck and shoulder.
Neck Strain & Spasms
A strain occurs in muscles; specifically it is the tearing or stretching of muscle fibers. Neck strains can result from whiplash. A spasm can occur when the muscles contract involuntarily either as the result of an injury, overuse, poor posture, or stress.
Symptoms:
- Pain and tenderness in your neck
- Pain when moving your head
- Tension headaches
- Muscles are hard, tight and painful
Diagnosis:
Your physician will evaluate your injury by taking a complete medical history, including mechanism of injury, prior injuries and symptoms. Your physician will perform a complete examination of your neck. Your physician may also send you for an x-ray.
Treatment:
- Use ice on the area for 20 minutes on with 40 minutes off for the first 72 hours
- Heat Pack
- Take an anti-inflammatory or pain medication as prescribed by your physician
- Stretching the neck muscles
- Massage
- Physical Therapy
Prevention:
- Strengthen the muscles that surround your neck
- If you are at a desk throughout the day, take breaks and stretch your neck