top of page

Disc Herniation

Fast & Effective Osteopathic Neck Pain Treatment
Are you experiencing neck pain that’s interfering with your daily activities?

Definition
Cervical disc herniation is a condition where the discs in the neck get damaged or displaced, leading to spinal cord or nerve compression. These discs act as cushions between the vertebrae. When herniated, the inner gel-like substance pushes through the outer layer, causing pain and sometimes affecting nearby nerves.

 

This article explores the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for cervical disc herniation.

Symptoms

  • Neck pain, especially at night

  • Numbness or tingling in the shoulder, arm, or fingers

  • Weakness in the hand or arm

  • Stumbling or awkward walking

  • Headaches and migraines

  • Sudden onset of pain, with relief through rest and activity modification

  • Pain with flexion or combined extension and rotation in affected patients.

Causes of Disc Herniation:

  • Aging and disc degeneration: Natural wear and tear with age weakens spinal discs, making them more prone to herniation and rupture, resulting in pain.

  • Genetics and disc strength: Inherited disc weaknesses increase the likelihood of herniation, even with minor stress or trauma.

  • Trauma or injury: Sudden accidents like car crashes or falls apply force to the cervical spine, causing immediate disc herniation and pain.

  • Poor posture and improper body mechanics: Prolonged poor posture strains the neck, weakening discs over time and raising the risk of herniation.

  • Muscle strain from overuse or awkward sleeping positions: Repetitive neck movements and awkward sleeping positions strain neck muscles, affecting disc stability and increasing herniation risk.

  • Underlying medical conditions: Conditions like arthritis, spinal stenosis, and degenerative disc disease weaken spinal discs, contributing to herniation.
     

Risk Factors:

  • Age between 30-50 years old: Risk increases as discs naturally degenerate with age.

  • Occupations with heavy lifting or repetitive neck movements: Frequent strain on the cervical spine heightens herniation risk.

  • Sedentary lifestyle and lack of exercise: Weakened neck muscles from inactivity raise herniation risk.

  • Obesity or excessive weight: Added weight stresses discs, accelerating degeneration and increasing herniation risk.

  • Smoking: Impairs disc nutrition and healing, compromising structural integrity and increasing herniation risk.

  • Previous neck injuries or disc problems: History of such issues weakens disc structure, making future herniation more likely.


.

Preventive measures

  • Preventing herniated discs is possible with these steps:

  • Maintain good posture while sitting and standing.

  • Engage in regular neck and back strengthening exercises.

  • Avoid activities straining the neck, like carrying heavy bags on one shoulder.

  • Use proper lifting techniques for heavy objects.

How we can help:

  • Personalized treatment plans using a whole-body approach.

  • Laser Therapy for symptomatic relief from cervical disc herniation.

  • Strengthening by Therapists and posture advice.

  • Experienced  with evidence-based techniques.

  • Comprehensive plans including lifestyle modifications.

  • Conveniently located clinic at David Weir Leisure Centre

  • Positive patient reviews reflecting improved quality of life

David Weir Leisure Centre,
Middleton Road, Carshalton
SM5 1SL

Home Visit Available

Home Visits Postcodes 
SM, SW19,20, KT, CR

Email

 Copyright 2023 Back On The Move Osteopathy - All Rights Reserved
 
Company Number:  14981414

bottom of page