Disc herniation in the neck

What is a herniated disc in the neck?

Bulging or prolapse of the disc in the neck (herniated disc in the neck) often results in pinching of the spinal nerves from the neck. Most often, these problems occur between the fourth and seventh cervical vertebrae. This is because these vertebrae are exposed to increased mechanical pull from connective tissue and ligaments. Poor posture and unilateral lateral work are often a triggering factor. Often, inflammation also occurs in the area, which also increases the symptom picture.

Symptoms of a herniated disc in the neck

Symptoms of pinched nerves in the neck (pain from a herniated disc) include pain radiating to the shoulder, one arm and/or hand. Pain, numbness and weakness of muscles may occur.

• 99% of cases have pain radiating into the arm
• 95% of cases have sensory disturbances
• 79% of cases have neck pain
• 71% of cases have decreased reflexes
• 68% of cases have motor muscle problems
• 52% of cases have pain in the shoulder blade
• *However, there are cases where disc protrusion or herniated disc does not cause any symptoms.

Causes of herniated disc in the neck

There are many different factors that contribute to the development of a herniated disc in the neck.

Physiologically, certain conditions must exist before the disc degenerates; poor circulation in the area, both arterial and venous, the acidity of the blood in the area is too acidic, the mechanical forces on the disc are too great, and other areas of the body that mechanically have the same function as the neck do not contribute to mobility (which results in a greater strain on the neck).

Why herniated disc in the neck?

Disc herniation never occurs without a reason.

Poor lifting, incorrect posture or excessive strain on the neck are often just the trigger factors for a herniated disc in the neck. In most cases, a herniated disc in the neck occurs between C5 (the fifth cervical vertebra) and C6 (the sixth cervical vertebra). The reason for this is that the fifth cervical vertebra is a “floating” cervical vertebra, meaning that there are no ligaments or other structures that hold the vertebra in place. The sixth and seventh cervical vertebrae, together with the upper rib, are a suspension for a chain consisting of the lungs, the respiratory muscle (diaphragm) and everything that is attached to the diaphragm, namely the abdominal organs.

Therefore, scar tissue in the abdomen, or other tensions that pull from below, will always have a mechanical impact on the cervical vertebrae above.

When should you seek medical attention?

​There are some symptoms that may indicate pathology or some serious problems. Symptoms such as numbness in both arms, motor disorders of the arms, memory problems, unconsciousness, breathing problems, problems with the legs. The above symptoms should always be reported to your doctor.

​Treatment of herniated disc in the neck

Osteopathic way to deal with disc problems and herniated discs in the neck:

• ​Correct misalignments of the cervical vertebrae (vertebrae that have slipped forward, tilted, rotated or pushed to the side) and thereby increase the space for the nerves.
• Work with blood supply in and around the area.
• Remove tension from connective tissue and ligaments that attach to the vertebrae (here you need to work with chains that extend from the neck, through the chest down to the abdomen).
• Correct posture (head and shoulders pulled forward, large neck bend and generally hunched forward posture)
• Help the body fight inflammation (treatment of the autonomic nervous system, heart, lungs, blood system, liver, kidneys and digestive system).
• Rest and stress management

Osteopathic approach to herniated disc in the neck

Langevin, P. and his team showed through their study that through manual treatment and rehabilitation, effective results can be achieved against symptoms of disc herniation or herniated disc in terms of reducing pain and functional problems in the neck.