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What is a Cervical Hernia?
A herniated disc (cervical disc herniation) is a condition that occurs in the cushion-like discs between the vertebrae in the neck. These discs between the vertebrae act as a shock absorber against impacts. However, when the outer surface of the discs is damaged or weakened for various reasons, the nucleus inside the disc passes through the outer surface and presses on the nerve roots or spinal cord. This condition is called a herniated disc in the neck.
Symptoms of Neck Hernia
The symptoms of a cervical hernia can vary from person to person and vary in intensity depending on the pressure of the hernia on the nerves. Here are the common symptoms:
- Neck Pain: Constant and severe neck pain, especially when the neck is moved, the pain may increase.
- Arm and Shoulder Pain: When the nerve roots are compressed, the pain may radiate from the neck to the arms and shoulders.
- Numbness and Tingling: Numbness and tingling may occur in the arm, hands or fingers.
- Muscle weakness: Loss of strength in the arms, shoulders or hands.
- Headache: Stretching of the muscles in the neck can cause headaches.
- Movement Restriction: There may be tenderness and limitation in neck movements.
If the cervical hernia is serious, further symptoms such as loss of balance, weakness in the legs and urinary incontinence may occur as a result of pressure on the spinal cord.
Causes of Neck Hernia
- Traumas Accidents, falls or sudden neck movements.
- Repetitive Movements: Staying in the same position for long periods of time (e.g. working at a computer).
- Aging: The structure of the discs deteriorates with age.
- Bad Posture: Constantly keeping the neck in a bad position (head tilted forward while using the phone or computer).
- Carrying heavy loads: Activities that overload the neck.
- Genetic Factors: Family history of disc degeneration or neck herniation.
Neck Hernia Treatment Methods
The treatment of a cervical hernia is determined by the severity of the condition, the patient's quality of life and the severity of the symptoms. Treatment methods are generally divided into two as non-surgical (conservative) and surgical treatment.
1. Non-Surgical Treatment Methods:
In most cases, neck hernia can be treated without surgical intervention.
Medication:
- Painkillers and muscle relaxants can be used to relieve pain.
- Anti-inflammatory drugs are prescribed to reduce nerve inflammation.
Physical Therapy:
- Special exercises are used to strengthen and increase the flexibility of the neck muscles.
Hot Compress:
- Local hot application can be used to relieve pain and muscle spasms.
Lifestyle Changes:
- It is important to correct your posture, create an ergonomic working environment and avoid straining the neck muscles.
- Excessively heavy lifting and prolonged work in a bad position should be avoided.
2. Surgical Treatment Methods:
Surgical treatment is rarely necessary and is usually preferred in the following cases
- Severe and persistent pain,
- Excessive pressure on the nerve roots or spinal cord,
- Increasing weakness in mobility or muscles.
Some of the most common surgical procedures:
- Microsurgical Discectomy: Surgical removal of the herniated disc.
- Cervical Fusion: Placement of a bone graft or metal plate to stabilize the vertebrae after removal of the disc.
- Artificial Disc Replacement: Replacing the damaged disc with an artificial disc.
After surgery, physical therapy and rehabilitation are important for rapid recovery.
Recommendations to Prevent Neck Hernia
- Correct Posture Make sure you sit in an upright position in your daily life and work environment.
- Computer and Telephone Use: Keep the computer screen at eye level and do not bend the neck forward when using the phone.
- Sleep Position: Prefer to use an orthopedic pillow.
- Exercise: Do exercises that strengthen the neck and back muscles.
- Avoid Stress: Prolonged stress can lead to muscle tension and increase the risk of cervical hernia.
Early diagnosis is extremely important in the treatment of cervical hernia. If you have symptoms such as persistent neck pain, numbness in the arm or loss of strength, you should definitely consult a neurosurgeon.
