As just mentioned, the pain which comes with cervical disc herniation may vary from one patient to another.  However, one thing is certain: the pain can be very serious.  While the cervical discs are typically not large, the space for the nerves is neither big.  This means that even a simple case of herniation can irritate the nerve and cause tremendous pain and discomfort.  Typically, it is the arm which gets the most severe pain at the onset of cervical disc herniation.

Diagnosis of Cervical Disc Herniation

The first part of diagnosing cervical disc herniation is by conducting a physical exam.  The doctor will ask you about the pain you have been experiencing as well as how long it has been around.  You will also be asked whether you have just had any injury or trauma as either can cause cervical disc herniation.

After the initial stage, you will be asked to go through some diagnostic imaging tests.  They are necessary to make sure that cervical disc herniation is the genuine cause of the problem.

Here are some of the most popular tests for cervical disc herniation:

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan—This is probably the best way to diagnose cervical disc herniation. The scan can show a clear image of any nerve root which may be pinched due to cervical disc herniation.

• Computerized Tomography (CT) Scan–  Cervical disc herniation may also be diagnose via CT scan with myelogram.  Myelography is a tool for diagnosis which uses radiographic contrast media or dye.  The dye is injected into the fluid in the spinal canal so the nerve and bony structures can be clearly identified.  This can make the diagnosis of cervical disc herniation a lot easier.  With better illumination of the spinal parts, even the most subtle case of nerve root impingement can be seen.

• Electromyography (EMG)—EMG is not often used in diagnosing cervical disc herniation. However, it may be requested in particular occasions. EMG is a kind of electrical test carried out by stimulating certain nerves along with inserting needles into different leg or arm muscles that may be affected by cervical disc herniation.  In the case that the muscles have lost normal functioning, a spontaneous electrical activity will be detected.  Apart from helping diagnose cervical disc herniation, this test can also rule out other conditions involving the nerves such as brachial plexitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, thoracic outlet syndrome, and ulnar nerve entrapment.

Treatments for Cervical Disc Herniation

Oftentimes, cervical disc herniation can be treated by noninvasive and conservative methods such as taking medications, physical therapy, and other non-surgical approaches.  Once the pain of shows improvement, it is unlikely to return.  However, the weakness and tingling may take some time to totally disappear.

The doctor may ask you to take some time off from work.  Don’t worry, in most cases, of cervical disc herniation just several days of rest would suffice. Just make sure you follow the therapist’s instructions and make time for some useful exercises that can fasten your recovery from cervical disc herniation.  He or she may also recommend some alterations in your diet.  Follow them and you’ll surely be feeling normal soon.