Neck and Arm Pain? It May Be a Herniated Disc
A cervical disc herniation happens when one of the cushion-like discs in the neck bulges or leaks out of place. This can irritate or press on a nearby nerve root or, less commonly, the spinal cord. Some people have a herniated disc and never feel symptoms. Others develop neck pain, pain that travels down the arm, numbness, tingling, or weakness.
The good news is that most cervical disc herniations improve without surgery. Many people recover from cervical herniated disc surgery within 8 to 12 weeks with a plan that may include activity changes, medication, physical therapy, and time.
What is Cervical Disc Herniation? (CDH)
Your neck is made of seven bones called cervical vertebrae. Between most of these bones are discs that act like shock absorbers. Each disc has a tougher outer ring and a softer center. When disc material pushes out beyond its normal space, it is called a herniation.
If the herniated disc irritates a nerve going into the arm, it can cause cervical radiculopathy, often called a “pinched nerve.” If it presses on the spinal cord, it can cause cervical myelopathy, which is more serious and needs prompt medical attention.
Common Symptoms of Cervical Disc Herniation (CDH)
Symptoms can vary from person to person. Neck pain may be mild, severe, or even absent. When a nerve is irritated, symptoms often travel from the neck into one shoulder, arm, or hand. Below is a comprehensive list of potential symptoms of CDH:
- Sharp, burning, or electric pain down one arm
- Numbness or tingling in the shoulder, arm, hand, or fingers
- Weakness in the arm or hand
- Neck stiffness or pain that changes with position
- Pain that worsens with certain movements and improves with rest or position changes
When to Seek Urgent Care
Most neck and arm pain is not dangerous, but some symptoms can signal spinal cord or serious nerve involvement. Contact a clinician urgently, or seek emergency care, if you have:
- New or worsening weakness in an arm or hand
- Clumsiness, dropping objects, or trouble with buttons or writing
- Balance problems, falls, or trouble walking
- Numbness or tingling in both arms
- New bladder or bowel problems
- Symptoms after a major injury, such as a fall or car crash
- Fever, unexplained weight loss, or a history of cancer with new neck pain
Are you experiencing symptoms of cervical disc herniation?
Contact us today to receive an evaluation.
Or, visit BOS Express Orthopedic Walk-In Clinic in Waltham.
How Is Cervical Disc Herniation Diagnosed?
Diagnosis of cervical disc herniation usually starts with a conversation and physical exam. Your clinician may ask when symptoms started, where the pain travels, what makes it better or worse, and whether you have numbness, weakness, balance problems, or bladder or bowel changes.
During the exam, your clinician may check neck movement, arm strength, sensation, reflexes, and walking or hand coordination. Imaging, such as an MRI, may be ordered if symptoms are severe, are not improving, follow an injury, or suggest nerve or spinal cord problems. An MRI finding alone does not always explain pain, because some people have disc changes without symptoms.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Cervical Herniated Disc
For many patients, the first step is conservative care. This means treating pain, calming inflammation, keeping safe movement, and helping the neck and arm recover.
Activity Changes
Avoid heavy lifting, high-impact activity, and positions that clearly worsen symptoms. Gentle movement is usually better than long periods of bed rest.
Medication
Anti-inflammatory medicines, acetaminophen, short courses of other prescription medicines, or muscle relaxants may be used when appropriate. Always follow your clinician’s guidance.
Physical Therapy
Exercises and hands-on care can improve posture, neck movement, strength, and daily function.
Injections
If pain continues despite medication and therapy, an epidural steroid injection may help reduce nerve inflammation and provide temporary relief.
When Surgery is an Option
Surgery is not needed for most cervical disc herniations. A spine specialist may consider surgery if there are signs of spinal cord compression, worsening weakness or neurologic function, or disabling arm pain that does not improve after a full trial of nonsurgical treatment.
Be Seen by a Spine Specialist in the Boston Area
At Boston Orthopaedic & Spine, we believe in a collaborative approach to patient care. We partner with you, your care team, primary care physician, and physical therapy team to ensure you receive the best possible care.
A cervical disc herniation can be painful and frustrating, especially when symptoms travel into the arm or hand. Still, most people improve with time and nonsurgical care. The most important steps are to get an accurate diagnosis, stay alert for warning signs, follow a treatment plan, and ask for help if symptoms worsen or do not improve.
Boston Orthopaedic & Spine proudly serves the Boston, Cambridge, and Waltham communities. Patients in the greater Boston area experiencing worrying symptoms may schedule a consultation today at Boston Orthopaedic & Spine.