A herniated cervical disc is the condition in which one or more of the spinal discs in your neck are pushed out of alignment. Herniation is sometimes also referred to as a slipped, bulging or protruding disc. A herniation in the neck can cause neck and arm pain, numbness and tingling. According to the NYU Spine Center, treatment for this painful condition can include isometric, or strengthening, neck exercises. Consult a doctor if you experience neck pain before you self-treat with exercises. He will determine the type and frequency of exercises that will benefit your condition.
Alignment
Making sure your neck is in proper alignment can help you recover more quickly from the pain of a herniated cervical disc. The American Senior Fitness Association publication "Mature Fitness" explains that incorrect neck alignment, or poor posture, can hamper blood supply and nerve function in your neck and spine. Align your neck correctly before proceeding to resistance and strengthening exercises.
Sit up straight in a chair, close your mouth and place your tongue on the roof of your mouth. Try to relax your body as much as you can without slumping. Place your hand in front of your face so that your palm is facing you. Bring your chin up to a position that's level with your shoulder by "chucking" yourself under your chin with your thumb to raise it appropriately. Use your other hand to lift the back of your head to a straight position. You should be looking straight ahead, back straight, head centered and chin up at this point.
Resistance Exercises
Resistance exercises can strengthen your neck and help your muscles compensate for the bulging of the disc. You'll be using your head and neck to gently push against your hands to develop your muscles. Sit down in a chair with your back straight. Put one hand flat on your cheek. Tilt your head sideways to try to touch your ear to your shoulder. Firmly, but gently, push back with your hand, trying to prevent your head from tilting more. Keep both your head and your hand as still as possible for a count of three.
A variation of this exercise uses the same form of resistance--your hand, but the movement of your neck is altered. Instead of bringing your ear to your shoulder, simply turn your head so your chin aligns with your shoulder. Present yourself with the resistance for three seconds.
Each exercise should be repeated with each hand so both sides of your neck are equally treated.
Strengthening Exercise
Strengthening exercises for a cervical disc herniation also include working on the muscles in the front and back of your neck, in addition to the sides. Sit down and clasp your hands together and place them behind your neck. Bring your elbows further back toward the back of your body while pulling your chin in toward your body at the same time. Press your head deeper into your hands as you move both your chin and your arms. Count to three and then relax. "Mature Fitness" suggests repeating this strengthening exercise four times as part of a set.
