You can expect to experience neck pain at some point in your life. Usually, the spine consists of vertebrae separated by discs, which allows flexibility and stability. The discs also enhance movement and act as shock absorbers. However, as you grow older, the discs may wear down, causing you to experience stiffness and pain around your neck. Apex Spine and Neurosurgery offers comprehensive care for cervical disc disease in Roswell to relieve your symptoms and enhance free movement. The modern neurosurgery practice uses advanced techniques to provide noninvasive treatments and to improve health. Call their offices today or book online to schedule your consultation.
Cervical disc disease
Cervical disc disease develops due to the stress and strains of your neck, causing damage to the discs. The condition is a frequent cause of chronic neck pain.
The discs have a soft and cushioning material enclosed by a protective shell. The discs appear in between the vertebrae along your spine.
Discs enable movement of your spine, give the spine stability, and offer protection against damage. The discs change as you grow older, becoming stiff and dry, a condition known as degenerative disc disease. The problem is familiar to a lot of people around middle age.
Causes of cervical disc disease
Cervical disc disease may occur due to
Cervical herniated nucleus pulposus
The disease occurs as a result of repetitive cervical stress. Heavy lifting, whiplash accidents, and prolonged sedentary positions increase its risk.
Cervical degenerative disc disease
This type of cervical disc disease occurs during the aging process. However, it can also occur due to smoking, genetics, poor nutrition, work-related activities, and atherosclerosis.
Cervical internal disc disruption
It is due to cervical trauma such as whiplash, repetitive use, or cervical injury.
Symptoms of cervical disc disease
When having a cervical disc disease, you may experience
· Stiff neck
· Difficulty moving your neck
· Nerve compression
· Sharp pain that travels to your shoulders and arms
· Numbing sensations down your arm
Diagnosis
During your consultation at Apex Spine and Neurosurgery, your provider reviews your medical history to assess the severity of your condition and evaluate the cause. Your doctor may also perform a neurological exam to determine your reflexes and sensations of the areas affected.
Tests such as MRI, CT scans, radiographs, among others may also be necessary.
Treatment
Medical providers recommend conservative treatments first to relieve symptoms which include:
· Physical therapy
· Medications to reduce inflammation
· Stabilization programs
· Pain relief gel application on your neck
· Neck exercises and stretches
· Placing heat or cold packs on the neck
Other treatments include
· Epidural injections
· Nerve blocks
In rare cases, your provider may recommend surgery to remove the distorted disc through discectomy.
At Apex Spine and Neurosurgery, they also offer artificial disc replacement and fusion surgery to enhance stability and motion.
During your consultation, your doctor will discuss your target needs to design a customized treatment for you.
The bottom line
Cervical disc disease usually occurs due to the repetitive stress and strain of the cervical disc causing damage. It is a common problem amongst middle-aged individuals due to disc degeneration. The condition makes your neck stiff and painful. If you are experiencing pain while moving your neck, you may consider visiting the spine and neurosurgery specialists. Consult Apex Spine and Neurosurgery today to receive your solution.