Norton Neuroscience Institute spine specialists are experienced in treating herniated disc in the neck.

There are seven discs in your neck. These are called the cervical discs. Discs are doughnut-shaped, spongy cushions that fit between each vertebra to absorb shock and tie the vertebrae together to ease bending and twisting.

Discs are made of cartilage that holds a jellylike substance. If the cartilage tears, some of the jellylike substance can push out and press on a nerve root, or worse, the spine. This is called herniation, also known as a ruptured disc or slipped disc.

Symptoms of a Herniated Disc in the Neck

• Numbness or tingling in a shoulder or arm that may go down to your fingers
• Pain in a hand or arm
• Neck pain or numbness
• Deterioration of fine motor skills
• Trouble with coordination and feeling off balance

Treatment for a Herniated Disc in the Neck

With a combination of nonsurgical, surgical and innovative techniques, we can help relieve a herniated disc in the neck.

Treatment options include:

• Observation is recommended for minor herniated disc symptoms that aren’t getting worse or causing significant difficulties. Observation includes visits at regular intervals to ensure the condition isn’t progressing.
• Prescription medication can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
• Physical therapy and occupational therapy can improve symptoms.
• Injections can treat pain and reduce swelling.
• Severe cervical stenosis may be treated with surgery if the condition causes pain or weakness, or if it worsens.
• Surgical options include:
  • Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion
  • Cervical disc replacement
  • Posterior cervical decompression and/or fusion