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Herniated Disc
As a disc degenerates, the soft inner gel in the disc can leak back into the spinal canal. This is known as disc herniation, or herniated disc. Once inside the spinal canal, the herniated disc material then puts pressure on the nerve, causing pain to radiate down the nerve leading to sciatica or leg pain (from a lumbar herniated disc) or arm pain (from a cervical herniated disc).
Getting an accurate diagnosis for a cervical herniated disc is important. Once the cause of symptoms is identified, an effective treatment plan can be started.
When a cervical herniated disc causes symptoms, it can range from a mild neck ache to debilitating arm pain or weakness. Signs and symptoms can also vary depending on which nerve root is affected.
A cervical herniated disc is a common cause of pain that radiates from the neck into the arm. If symptoms persist or become severe, a range of treatment options is available to alleviate the pain.
A herniated disc in the neck can cause a literal "pain in the neck" and/or pain that radiates down the arm.
Treatment for cervical radiculopathy can include NSAIDs, physical therapy, chiropractic care, or spine surgery...
Get an in-depth look at conservative (non-surgical) cervical herniated disc treatment options such as medication, physical therapy, and chiropractic manipulation.
Diagnosing a lumbar herniated disc includes a detailed interview and a physical examination.
Article
Diagnosing Disc Problems
A medical diagnosis of disc problems such as a herniated disc consists of 3 steps: reviewing medical history, a physical examination and diagnostic tests.
Treatment will differ if the patient's pain is caused by a herniated disc or a degenerated disc. But there are several nonsurgical and surgical treatment options that will help to relieve pain from both conditions.
