Cervical Disc Bulge & Herniation Treatment in Mona Vale
A cervical disc bulge or herniation can contribute to neck pain and, in some cases, symptoms that travel into the shoulder, arm or hand.
At Helix Recovery in Mona Vale, we assess your symptoms, movement and neurological function to determine whether a cervical disc may be contributing and develop an appropriate treatment and rehabilitation plan.
What is a Cervical Disc Bulge & Herniation?
The cervical spine contains discs between each vertebra that help distribute load and allow the neck to move.
A disc bulge occurs when part of the disc extends beyond its usual boundary, while a disc herniation involves displacement of the inner disc material. If a disc irritates or compresses a nearby nerve root, it may cause pain, tingling, numbness or weakness into the arm.
Importantly, disc changes are also commonly found on MRI in people without neck pain. Imaging findings therefore need to be considered alongside your symptoms and clinical examination.
Common Symptoms
Neck pain and stiffness
Pain around the shoulder blade or upper back
Pain travelling into the shoulder or arm
Tingling or numbness in the arm or hand
Arm or hand weakness
Symptoms aggravated by certain neck positions or movements
Reduced neck movement
How We Assess a Cervical Disc Bulge & Herniation
Neck and arm symptoms can arise from several different structures, and the presence of a disc bulge on imaging doesn't necessarily mean it is responsible for your symptoms.
Your assessment may include neck movement, upper-limb strength, sensation, reflexes, neurological and nerve-tension testing, and examination of the shoulder and upper back where relevant.
The aim is to determine the likely source of your symptoms, assess for nerve involvement and identify factors that can be addressed during rehabilitation.
How We Treat a Cervical Disc Bulge & Herniation
Treatment depends on how long symptoms have been present, their severity and the activities you want to return to.
Treatment may include:
Osteopathic manual therapy
Progressive exercise rehabilitation
Neck and upper-back strengthening
Mobility exercises
Activity and load modification
Strategies to manage aggravating positions and activities
Gradual return to work, gym or sport
Common Questions
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Not necessarily. Disc bulges are common and can be present without causing symptoms. Their significance depends on your symptoms, examination findings and whether a nerve or the spinal cord is being affected.
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Yes. If a cervical nerve root becomes irritated or compressed, symptoms can travel into the shoulder, arm or hand and may include pain, tingling, numbness or weakness.
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Not always. Many presentations can initially be assessed clinically without imaging. MRI may be appropriate when symptoms are severe or persistent, significant neurological findings are present, or the result is likely to change management.
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In many cases, yes. Exercise can be progressively introduced based on your symptoms and neurological findings, with the aim of restoring movement, strength and tolerance to everyday activities.
Neck or Arm Pain That Isn't Improving?
If persistent neck or arm symptoms are affecting your work, training or everyday activities, a thorough assessment can help determine what may be contributing and what to do next.