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Hernia on the neck occurs when the discs located between the cervical vertebrae rupture or degenerate due to aging or trauma. In this condition, the displaced discs put pressure on the spinal cord and surrounding nerves. It commonly manifests with symptoms such as pain in the neck or shoulder, as well as pain radiating from the back of the neck toward the head. The treatment of neck hernia depends on the severity of the herniation and on which spinal nerves are being compressed.
What is Neck Hernia?
Neck hernia, also known as cervical disc herniation, occurs when the disc located between the vertebrae of the spine gradually weakens over time. This weakening can lead to the disc protruding outward. In cases of herniation, pressure may be exerted on the nerve root or the spinal cord, causing pain and a variety of neurological symptoms. The condition most commonly develops as a result of aging, trauma, or heavy lifting.
Hernia in Neck Symptoms
Neck hernia symptoms occur when the discs located in the spine put pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. The most common sign is neck pain, which can vary from person to person. The most frequently observed symptoms include:
- Neck pain that worsens with movement and radiates to the shoulder
- Pain spreading to the arms and shoulders when the nerve root is compressed
- Numbness and tingling caused by nerve compression
- Muscle weakness and loss of strength
- Restricted movement and stiffness in the neck
What Causes a Neck Herniated Disc?
The causes of a neck hernia are generally linked to an individual’s lifestyle conditions. The discs located in the cervical spine act as shock absorbers between the vertebrae. Over time, these discs may weaken and rupture, eventually protruding outward and placing pressure on the spinal cord or surrounding nerves. Aging, physical strain, and traumatic injuries are among the most common factors that contribute to the development of a neck herniated disc.
The main causes of a neck herniated disc include:
Aging
With aging, the discs lose water content and elasticity, making them more prone to wear and tear.
Trauma
Falls, sudden impacts, or car accidents can cause significant damage to the cervical discs.
Heavy lifting
Performing strenuous movements or lifting heavy objects can place excessive pressure on the discs, leading to herniation.
Poor posture and prolonged inactivity
Habits such as sitting incorrectly at a computer or spending long hours looking down at a phone weaken the neck muscles and put strain on the discs.
Genetic factors
A family history of similar spinal conditions may increase an individual’s susceptibility to developing a neck hernia.
How Is Neck Hernia Diagnosed?
The diagnosis of a neck hernia is essential for determining and planning the most appropriate treatment approach. In this process, not only the patient’s complaints but also detailed examinations and imaging techniques are carefully evaluated. Since neck herniation can cause symptoms such as pain radiating to the arms or muscle weakness, a comprehensive assessment is often required.
The main diagnostic methods for a neck hernia include:
Physical Examination
The doctor evaluates the patient’s symptoms, pain intensity, and duration, while also assessing the impact on daily function. During the physical exam, neck mobility, muscle strength, reflexes, and areas of numbness are carefully checked.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
MRI is one of the most commonly used methods for diagnosing neck hernia. It clearly shows disc ruptures and the pressure exerted on the spinal cord and nerves.
Computed Tomography (CT)
When MRI is not possible, or when detailed evaluation of bone structures is needed, a CT scan can be used. This technique provides detailed information about the vertebrae and the effects of the herniation.
Electromyography (EMG)
This test helps determine how much the nerves are affected. By measuring the electrical activity of muscles and nerves, EMG provides insight into nerve compression.
X-Ray
Although X-rays do not directly show the discs, they provide valuable information about bone structures, vertebral misalignments, or degenerative changes in the neck region.
How Is a Neck Hernia Treated?
The treatment of a cervical herniated disc depends on the severity of the condition, the patient’s age, and the intensity of symptoms. The primary goal is to relieve pain while reducing pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots. Treatment options are generally divided into non-surgical (conservative) methods and surgical procedures.
Non-Surgical (Conservative) Treatments
- Medications: Pain relievers, muscle relaxants, and anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed to manage discomfort and inflammation.
- Physical Therapy: Tailored exercises are recommended to strengthen the neck muscles, improve flexibility, and correct posture problems.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Avoiding prolonged poor posture, refraining from heavy lifting, and ensuring ergonomic working conditions can help prevent progression.
- Corticosteroid Injections: In certain cases, corticosteroid injections around the nerve root may be used to decrease inflammation and alleviate pain.
Surgical Treatments
When conservative methods fail to provide relief and nerve compression becomes severe, or when significant muscle weakness develops, surgical intervention is considered.
- Discectomy: Removal of the damaged disc to relieve nerve compression.
- Microsurgical Techniques: Minimally invasive procedures performed through smaller incisions with specialized instruments, allowing faster recovery.
- Artificial Disc Replacement: In some cases, the removed disc may be replaced with a prosthetic implant to maintain spinal mobility.
Frequently Asked Questions About Neck Hernia
Can you get a hernia in your neck from exercise?
Incorrect or overly strenuous exercise can contribute to the development of a cervical herniated disc. This includes poor posture, heavy lifting, sports activities, or sudden neck movements.
Can a hernia cause neck pain?
One of the most common symptoms of a cervical herniated disc is neck pain. This occurs when the spinal discs protrude outward and put pressure on the nerves or the spinal cord, which can lead to discomfort and pain.
