Can a Herniated Disc Cause Neck Pain?

Neck pain affects more than one-quarter of American adults. Fortunately, life-threatening causes of neck pain, like cancer, are rare. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take neck pain seriously. 

Your neck may not be large, but it plays a big role in your health. Besides protecting the upper part of your spinal cord, your neck houses the tendons, muscles, nerves, and ligaments that support your head and help your body function. 

When your neck isn’t working right, it can interrupt your sleep and make carrying out even the most simple daily tasks a challenge. NAME PROVIDER at Integrated Spine and Pain Services in Falls Church and Alexandria, Virginia, understands the need to address neck pain effectively and efficiently. 

Some of our patients wonder if a problem with a cervical disc could be the underlying cause of their neck pain. Keep reading as we explain the connection and the ways we can help. 

What are cervical discs?

Your spine is a series of bones called vertebrae. They’re stacked atop each other in three areas: from your lower back (lumbar spine) through the middle of your back (thoracic spine) to your neck (cervical spine). 

Between these vertebrae are discs, which act like connectors and cushions. This means the bones move smoothly when you move your spine, with the discs absorbing the shock or impact from movements. 

The discs in your cervical spine (neck) are called cervical discs. They have two layers: a gel-like center and a tough outer layer. They work together to help your spine function.  

What is a herniated cervical disc?

A herniated cervical disc, which is sometimes referred to as a slipped disc, is when the gel-like center of a cervical disc pushes through the tough outer layer. There’s very little extra space around the cervical spine, so this displaced disc puts pressure on the surrounding nerves and tissues. 

Does a herniated cervical disc cause neck pain?

Yes! The pressure the herniated disc exerts on the surrounding nerves and tissues can trigger pain in your neck, along with other frustrating symptoms. The symptoms you experience are closely linked to how severe the herniation is and where it’s located along your spine. 

If your cervical disc herniation is minor, you might not notice any symptoms. But for most people, a herniated cervical disc causes one or more of the following symptoms:

• Ongoing neck pain
• Headache
• Shoulder and upper back pain
• Pain that may radiate to the arms or hands
• Muscle weakness in shoulders, arms, or hands
• Tingling or electric-shock sensations

A herniated disc can also trigger issues with balance and coordination. 

What should I do if I’m worried about neck pain?

If you’re experiencing neck pain and are worried about a herniated disc, a spine and pain specialist can offer expert diagnosis and effective treatment options. 

At Integrated Spine and Pain Services, PROVIDER NAME evaluates your symptoms, reviews your medical history, and conducts exams and tests to diagnose the cause of your pain. PROVIDER NAME then creates a personalized neck pain treatment plan based on your needs. 

Our team generally begins treatment with the most conservative therapies before recommending invasive modalities, but this depends on the severity of your herniation and the impact your symptoms have on your daily life. Options may include:

• Rest / modifying physical activities
• Heat and cold therapy
• Anti-inflammatory medicines
• Physical therapy
• Transforaminal epidural steroid injections
• Selective nerve root blocks
• Medial branch blocks
• Medial branch radiofrequency ablation

If you’re experiencing ongoing or severe neck pain, contact the Integrated Spine and Pain Service team in Northern Virginia by calling the office nearest you or scheduling an appointment online now.