Cervical Hernia

The disc can no longer able to perform its cushioning function due to traumas, overforcing, accidents, or the reduction of water content in the central disc caused by ageing. The outer covering of the disc may tear as it degrades, and the middle of the disc may protrude through a rupture in the outer layer, filling the compartment that houses the nerves and spinal cord and causing a cervical disc hernia.

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Our neck is made up of seven vertebrae with discs in between to facilitate movement. The most important structure that connects one vertebra to the next is the disc. It acts as a cushion or shock absorber between the vertebrae and is made up of strong connective tissue. (Figure 1)

The discs and facet joints allow the vertebra to move, allowing you to bend or rotate your neck or back. The disc is made up of two layers: an exterior, sturdy layer called "annulus fibrosus," and an inner, jelly-like layer called "nucleus pulposus."

What are the nonsurgical treatment methods in cervical disc hernia?

The majority of cervical disc hernia patients improve without any treatment. Patients with chronic pain have a range of options. Cervical disc hernia discomfort can be relieved with a variety of medications.

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The majority of individuals will improve with conservative management or nonsurgical medical treatment.

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Rest, collar, anti - inflammatory medicines for reducing nerve injury, painkillers for pain control, physical therapy, exercise, or epidural steroid injections may be recommended if necessary.

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The goal of nonsurgical treatment for cervical disc hernia is to reduce nerve harm caused by the herniated disc, reduce pain, and improve the patient's overall condition. You should check with your doctor to see if you can work during your therapy.

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Following the start of cervical disc hernia pain, a brief period of rest (1-2 days) may be beneficial. The reintroduction of motions following this brief rest period is critical for avoiding joint stiffness and muscle weakening. Your doctor may educate you by teaching you unique neck strengthening exercises with the help of a nurse or physiotherapist. You can do these exercises at home, or you can go to a physiotherapist for a specialized treatment tailored to your needs and abilities.

Cervical disc hernia operation

Patients with cervical hernias who have not responded to nonsurgical therapy options may need surgery.

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The goal of cervical hernia surgery is to remove the disc section that is compressing the nerve. This is accomplished by the use of a technique known as discectomy.

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Depending on the location of the herniated disc, the surgeon makes an incision on the front (anterior) (figure 2) or rear (posterior) (figure 3) of the neck to gain access to the spine.

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The technical decision to operate from the front or back is based on a number of criteria, including the exact location of the disc herniation, the surgeon's experience, and his or her preferences. The section of the disc that is compressing the nerve is routinely resected with good results in both techniques.

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Because a large section of the disc must be removed to access the herniated disc component when approaching from the front, a fusion surgery is frequently required in the same session.