The C3 and C4 vertebrae are two of the seven small bones that form the cervical spine, which runs vertically along the neck. In between these vertebrae there are discs, which help support and protect the bones and nerves of the spinal column. Normal aging, trauma or strenuous activity can increase the amount of pressure placed on these discs. An increase in pressure can cause a portion of the disc to push or leak into the spinal canal, which can injure or inflame spinal nerves. People who experience C3 and C4 herniated disc symptoms should seek prompt care from a medical professional.
Neck Pain
The most common symptom associated with a herniated C3 and C4 disc is neck pain. Sensations of pain may occur at rest and neck discomfort is typically worse when a person attempts to move the neck, MedlinePlus reports. Neck pain can develop as a dull, aching pain that slowly transitions into a burning sensation that radiates from the neck into the shoulder muscles, arms or hands. People who experience frequent neck pain may also develop headache pain, especially at the back of the head. Neck pain typically persists or increases in severity until sufferers receive appropriate treatment for the herniated cervical disc.
Numbness, Tingling or Weakness
A herniated disc in the neck can press into the nerves in the spinal column, which interferes with the ability of the affected nerve to transmit signals throughout the body. When this occurs, people may experience unusual sensations of tingling, numbness or weakness in the upper shoulders or arms, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center explains. These uncomfortable sensations may occur in conjunction with neck or shoulder pain and can interfere with person's ability to move the affected body region normally.
Bowel or Bladder Incontinence
Certain nerves in the spinal column control a person's ability to voluntarily urinate or produce a bowel movement. A herniated C3 and C4 disc can disrupt these nerves by placing increased pressure on the spinal column. Consequently, people with a herniated cervical disc may experience symptoms of bladder or bowel incontinence, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. These symptoms result in the involuntary loss of bladder or bowel function, which can be embarrassing to affected people. People who experience this symptom, especially if it occurs in conjunction with arm or leg weakness, should seek medical care immediately.
