The cervical or neck area of the spine has seven vertebra that have round jelly-filled discs between them. These discs are designed to cushion the bones and absorb shock. They also allow the neck to move in various directions. If one or more of these discs or the jelly-like center pushes out of place, it is called a bulging or herniated disc. There are various conditions that can cause a cervical bulged disc, and properly diagnosing the cause will help to form the right treatment plan.
Age
With age and normal wear and tear on the spine, the discs begin to dry out and shrink in size. They can also start to bulge out of place, according to the Mayfield Clinic. It is common to have bulging disks with advanced age, and this condition can be present without ever causing any symptoms or requiring treatment. However, if nearby nerves, muscles or tissues are compressed, pain, numbness and weakness in the neck and arms may occur. Smoking and poor body mechanics can speed up the rate of disc degeneration.
Trauma
Any type of repetitive motion of the neck area due to job requirements or sporting activities can eventually cause a bulging cervical disc, says the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. While herniated discs are more common in the lower spine, they can also occur in the neck after lifting improperly or twisting or bending too quickly. They can also be from a direct blow to the cervical area. In most cases, bulging discs heal on their own without the need for surgery.
Congenital Defects
According to Medline Plus, being born with any type of condition that creates an abnormal shape of the spinal column can contribute to cervical bulging discs. There are various medical conditions in which the natural inward curve of the neck area is reduced, the spinal column doesn't form completely or abnormalities exist in individual vertebrae.
