What is Cervical Disc Herniation?
Cervical Disc Herniation occurs when a part of the nucleus of the disc joint between the cervical vertebrae leaks out from where it should normally be and compresses the surrounding nerve tissues.
The spine is an important structure that allows our body to stand upright and move. This structure consists of bones called vertebrae. And each vertebra is supported by the discs between them. These discs distribute the load between the vertebrae and ensure comfortable movement.
Running through the middle of the spine is the spinal cord, a network of nerves. In the neck region, there are 7 vertebrae and 5 discs between these vertebrae. These discs contain a structure called nucleus pulposus, which is a gelatin-like substance. The outer part of the discs is covered by the annulus fibrosus, a hard tissue, and they are supported by structures such as various connective tissues and muscles.
The first of these cervical vertebrae is located just below the skull. And it is called “atlas”. (C1 vertebra). The atlas vertebra is involved in the rotational movements of the head. And it works together with the C2 vertebra. There are a total of 7 vertebrae in the neck area.
8 pairs of nerve roots emerge from these vertebrae. Any changes that occur in the spinal area can directly affect these nerves. Or it may cause various symptoms by putting pressure on the vertebral canal.
What are The Causes of Cervical Disc Herniation?
The causes of cervical disc herniation are associated with various factors.
Here are The Causes of Cervical Disc Herniation:
Wear and Weakening of Discs
The main cause of cervical disc herniation is the wear or weakening of the discs, which serve as the protective cushions of the spine, over time. Loss of elasticity of the discs can lead to the formation of an environment that can put pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots.
Aging Process
Aging is one of the most common causes of cervical disc herniation. As we age, the water content of the discs decreases. This may cause the discs to lose flexibility. Additionally, degenerative changes occur in the discs with the aging process. This may increase the risk of neck hernia.
Trauma and Injuries
Trauma to the neck area can cause damage to discs and vertebrae. For example, impacts to the spine resulting from car accidents, sports injuries or falls can cause disc damage and cervical disc herniation.
Repetitive Movements
Repeating the same movements over and over can put too much pressure on the neck area and cause the discs to wear out. Especially staying in wrong positions for a long time or doing the same movement frequently can increase the risk of cervical disc herniation.
Irregular Spine Posture
Irregular spinal posture can put unnecessary stress on the spine. And it can lead to disk corruption. Sitting or standing without maintaining proper posture, especially for long periods of time, can increase the risk of cervical disc herniation.
Genetic Predisposition
Family history may influence the risk of cervical disc herniation. If there is a family history of cervical disc herniation, the individual may be more likely to be prone to this condition. Genetic factors can affect the structure and durability of discs.
To Smoke
Smoking is one of the factors that increases the risk of cervical disc herniation. Smoking can negatively affect the circulatory system. And this can prevent the discs from getting enough nutrition, causing them to weaken.
Obesity and Overweight
Being overweight or obesity can put extra stress on the spine and accelerate the wear of discs. Additionally, obesity can increase inflammation, which can increase the risk of cervical disc herniation.
Sedentary Lifestyle
Constantly sitting or leading a sedentary lifestyle can lead to weakened muscles and decreased support for the discs. This may increase the risk of neck hernia.
What is Good for Cervical Disc Herniation?
The main methods that are good for cervical disc herniation are cervical disc exercises, ice or heat therapy, massage, inflammation and pain reducing creams, painkillers, chiropractic treatment and, depending on the condition of the hernia, a cervical disc hernia pillow. By applying these methods, cervical disc herniation treatment improves at home. In cases where cervical disc herniation is more severe, medical intervention may be required. And this intervention usually takes the form of cervical disc herniation surgery.
Methods that are good for cervical disc herniation, especially cervical disc exercises and hot compresses, are as follows:
Ice or Heat Therapy
Applying ice therapy for 15 or 20 minutes at a time can help reduce inflammation and relieve neck pain.
Massage
Massage applied by experts not only relaxes and loosens the muscles and discs in the neck, but also increases blood flow and helps heal the cervical disc herniation.
Inflammation and Pain Reducing Creams
You can heal your cervical disc herniation at home with the support of inflammation and pain soothing creams recommended by your doctor.
Painkillers
Over-the-counter painkillers such as aspirin or acetaminophen are among the methods used in the treatment of cervical disc herniation.
Chiropractic Treatment
Chiropractic treatment method applied by experts aims to relieve the pain caused by head, neck and lumbar herniation. Considering that this method is still considered as an alternative treatment, it is recommended that it be performed under the supervision of a doctor.
Cervical Disc Herniation Pillow
Thanks to the cervical disc pillow, it is possible to prevent cervical disc herniation due to posture disorders, especially during sleep.
Sage Oil and Sesame Oil
It is thought that sage oil and sesame oil are also effective in reducing the pain caused by cervical disc herniation, but it is not yet possible to give a definitive answer on this issue.
Cervical Disc Herniation Exercises
There are certain neck and shoulder exercises that can help relieve cervical disc symptoms. However, you must consult a doctor before starting these exercises. Because every case is different. And expert opinion is needed to determine appropriate exercises.
Here are some common cervical disc exercises:
Thrusting from the Neck
- Keep your head upright while sitting or standing.
- Slowly tilt your head forward, bring your chin closer to your chest. Keep your spine straight during this time.
- Slowly return your head to the starting position.
- Stretch your neck muscles by repeating this exercise.
Bending Right and Left from the Neck
- Keep your head up.
- Slowly tilt your head to the right until your ear is close to your shoulder.
- Return your head to the starting position.
- Repeat the same process on the left side.
- This exercise is effective for working your side neck muscles.
Head Turn
- Keep your head up.
- Slowly turn your head to the right, focusing your gaze on your right shoulder.
- Return your head to the starting position.
- Repeat the same process on the left side.
- You can use this exercise to increase your neck rotation mobility.
Shoulder Raise
- Relax your shoulders and keep your head up.
- Slowly lift your shoulders up and bring them closer to your ears.
- Lower your shoulders down again.
- This exercise helps relax your neck and shoulder muscles.
Shoulder Circle
- Keep your head up.
- Slowly rotate your shoulders forward, then rotate them up, back and down in a full circle.
- Relax your shoulder and neck muscles by repeating this movement several times.
How is Cervical Disc Herniation Diagnosed?
The first step is for the patient to describe their symptoms and share their medical history. The doctor will try to find out when the pains started, what types of activities increase or decrease symptoms, and other relevant information. He or she will then perform a physical examination and examine the neck area, shoulders, and arm and hand areas.
Nerve Examinations:
Your doctor may perform nerve conduction testing to evaluate functionality in areas where nerve roots or spinal cord lesions are located. These tests measure the transmission speed and strength of nerve signals.
Radiological Imaging:
Radiological imaging methods are used to confirm the diagnosis and determine the status of the discs in the neck. The imaging methods that can be used are:
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI):
MRI provides detailed images of the spinal cord, nerve roots, and discs and is the most commonly used method to diagnose a herniated disc in the neck.
Computed Tomography (CT):
CT scans can provide more detailed images of the spine and help examine anatomical structures in the neck in more detail.
X-Rays:
X-rays can be used to evaluate the condition of the bones in the neck, but are not as effective as MRIs in showing the condition of the discs.
Electromyography (EMG):
EMG measures muscle activity in areas where nerve roots or nerves are affected. It can be used when determining nerve-related problems such as cervical disc herniation.
The diagnostic process involves the combined evaluation of symptoms and radiological images. Using this data, the doctor can evaluate the type, location and severity of the hernia in the neck.
How is Cervical Disc Herniation Surgery Performed?
Cervical disc herniation surgery is a surgical procedure performed on patients who cannot get results with medication and physical therapy. The surgery is performed to remove the protruding part of the disc in the patient’s neck area and to relieve the pressure on the spinal cord or nerve root.
Two different methods are often preferred in these surgeries.
The First of These is The Discectomy Method:
In this method, the disc or protrusion that is pressing on the nerves in the neck area is removed by a surgical procedure.
Unless there is a contrary situation, the surgery is performed by making an incision in the neck. Healing is achieved by restoring the disc to its normal state and eliminating the pressure on the nerve root or spinal cord.
By leaving the joint space empty without placing any foreign material between the joint and the hernia, the two vertebrae are allowed to fuse over time.
The Second Frequently Preferred Method: Microdiscectomy and Fusion Method
This method is also done through a smaller incision using a small microscope or endoscope. After the hernia is removed and any bone protrusions caused by calcification are cleaned, a material is used to help the two bones fuse together.
This prevents the joint space from collapsing and prevents pressure and injury to the nerves exiting the spine due to collapse. This method causes less tissue damage when removing the disc than the discectomy method, and recovery is achieved in a shorter time.
Third Method: Microdiscectomy and Cervical Disc Prosthesis
After the hernia and calcification, if any, are cleaned and put into normal form, a removable prosthesis placed between the vertebrae aims to protect neck movements and prevent movement restrictions.
Cervical disc hernia surgery is performed under general anesthesia. Depending on the surgical technique and the patient’s condition, it may require a few days of hospitalization.
The postoperative period requires careful monitoring. Painkillers may be given and cold applications may be applied to the neck area to reduce postoperative pain. Patients usually must wear a neck brace and limit physical activities for a period of time. In the future, physical therapy can be applied if necessary by the doctor.
