Brief Outline of Slipped Disc to the neck
Cervical discs are shock-absorbing pads of tissue cushioning bones of the cervical spine. A variety of injuries to these discs can cause pain and hamper movement and flexibility of the neck. Slipped discs occur when the gel-like substance leaks from the disc’s interior, following a split or rupture to the disc. This substance can then exert pressure on the spinal cord or nerves of the cervical spine.
Anatomy and physiology
The intervertebral discs absorb shock, facilitate movement, and provide support for the spinal column. Such discs consist of a center region or nucleus pulposus and a surrounding annulus fibrosis separating each segmental vertebra between the cervical spine and thoracic spine.Disc degeneration and / or herniation (disc rupture) can cause injury to the spinal cord or nerve roots.
Cause of Slipped Disc for neck pain
Disc degeneration and loss of elasticity. Repetitive stress, particularly from excessive or improper weight lifting. Sudden, forceful trauma to the cervical vertebrae.
Signs and symptoms
Tingling and weakness. Numbness or pain in the neck, shoulder, arm, or hand. Motor and sensory dysfunction in the affected cervical area.
Complications if left slipped disc unattended
Herniated or slipped discs can impinge on the spinal cord, an extremely delicate structure. Even minor damage to the spinal cord can be serious and is generally not reparable. Ignoring cervical disc injuries can lead to further degeneration and associated pain and mobility loss.
Treatment for slipped disc
- Discontinue activity causing stress to cervical vertebrae and discs.
- Physiotherapy
- Medicines
- Injection
Rehabilitation and prevention
For most slipped disc injuries, a conservative course of treatment is undertaken. Physical therapy includes stretching, strengthening and proprioceptive exercises and sometimes, efforts to adjust posture. Upper body exercise may help prevent disc hardening and degeneration, while strengthening supporting muscles will lower the risk of rupture.
Long-term prognosis
The majority of slipped or herniated disc injuries improve without recourse to surgery. Most athletes cane expect a full return to normal performance following rest and rehabilitation, though symptoms of the injury occasionally recur and degenerated discs are prone to re-rupturing.
Slipped Disc Spinal Specialist
