Cervical herniated discs can cause a great deal of pain and discomfort. The most common symptom is neck pain, but you may also experience pain that radiates down your arms or legs. Cervical disc disease Roswell can be excruciating and debilitating, making it hard to do the things you love. If you’re dealing with this condition, you might wonder what treatments are available.
Treatment options for a herniated disc will vary depending on the severity of your symptoms. Living with a herniated disc can be difficult, but there are things you can do to help manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Taking care of yourself and learning as much as you can about your condition is an excellent place to start.
The cervical spine comprises seven vertebrae or bones. The discs act as shock absorbers and allow the spine to move freely. Discs have a hard outside part and a soft interior.
You should not disregard any of the following symptoms:
Numbness, tingling, or weakness
If you have a herniated disc, you may experience numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arms or legs. This is caused by the disc pressing on a nerve.
Pain that gets worse at night
If you have a herniated disc, you may find that the pain gets worse at night. This is because you are lying down, putting more pressure on the disc.
Pain that radiates down your arms or legs
This type of pain is caused by the disc pressing on a nerve. It might be anything from a nagging ache to a blazing pain.
These symptoms can vary from mild to severe. In some cases, they may go away on their own; but in other cases, they may require treatment. You should consult a doctor if you experience any of these signs. They can identify the issue and suggest the most effective course of action.
Now that you know these symptoms, you must learn about the possible treatments:
Rest and ice
If your symptoms are mild, you can successfully treat them at home. Try to rest as much as possible and apply ice to the area for 20 minutes.
Medication
If your pain is more severe, your doctor may prescribe medication. This can include over-the-counter pain relievers, ibuprofen, or stronger prescription medications.
Physical therapy
Physical therapy can help ease the pain from a herniated disc and improve your range of motion. Your therapist will teach you exercises that stretch and strengthen the muscles in your lowert back.
Surgery
In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to correct a herniated disc. This is usually only done if other treatments have not worked. Surgery involves removing the herniated disc and replacing it with an artificial one.
These are some of the most common symptoms and treatment options for a cervical herniated disc. If you think you may have a herniated disc, it is important to see your doctor at APEX Spine and Neurosurgery so that they can properly diagnose and treat the condition. Untreated herniated discs can lead to more serious problems, so it is best to seek medical help as soon as possible.