Discs are located between the vertebrae. They work to cushion and absorb the shock placed on the body during activity. Discs can bulge and become herniated due to injury, illness or disease. Displaced spinal discs can occur on the cervical, thoracic or lumbar areas of the spine. Symptoms vary, depending on the location of the herniated disc. The first seven vertebrae of the spine make up the cervical spine. A herniated disc in the cervical spine can affect numerous parts of the body in various ways.
Weakness
A herniated disc located in the cervical spine may produce weakness in the neck, shoulders, arms or hands. This symptom may be experienced in one limb or bilaterally, depending on the location and severity of the herniated disc. Weakness in the limbs may make normal activities, such as lifting and grasping items, difficult.
Numbness
Numbness and tingling is another symptom that is sometimes associated with a herniated disc in the cervical spine. This occurs due to pressure that the displaced disc may be placing on nerves in the neck. The sensation is generally felt in the arms, hands or fingers and can occur on one or both sides. This symptom may be misdiagnosed as carpal tunnel and further testing often is required to determine the actual source of the numbness.
Pain
Pain is common complaint among those who have a herniated disc of the cervical spine. Patients may feel pain in the neck, shoulder or upper extremities. In some severe cases, pain may radiate to the trunk or lower extremities. In addition, pain may inhibit the range of motion of the neck and shoulders, interfering with activities of daily living.
Muscle Spasms
Herniated discs may produce painful muscle spasms. Muscle spasms occur as a result of strain or inflammation of the muscle tissue. A herniated disc could prevent that natural movement or flexibility of the body. The individual may instinctively position his head, arm, or neck in a manner that reduces pain, therefore putting extra strain on a specific muscle group. This can cause overuse, strain or inflammation of the muscle and result in spasms.
Additional Information
In rare cases, loss of bowel and bladder control occurs with cervical disc herniation. This could signal a serious problem and requires immediate medical attention.
