Herniated Disc in the Neck (Cervical Disc Herniation)

A herniated disc in the neck, also known as a cervical disc herniation, is a common spinal condition that can cause neck pain, nerve irritation, and symptoms in the arm, such as numbness or weakness. At The Orthopedic Partners, we provide comprehensive care for cervical disc herniation, combining advanced diagnostics with both conservative and surgical treatments to help you return to your daily activities with less pain and greater confidence.

What Is a Herniated Disc in the Neck?

The cervical spine consists of seven vertebrae (C1–C7) stacked one on top of another and separated by spinal discs that act as cushions and provide flexibility. Each disc has a soft center (nucleus pulposus) and a tough outer layer (annulus fibrosus).

A herniated cervical disc occurs when the inner material of the disc pushes through a tear in the outer layer, often pressing against nearby nerves or the spinal cord.

A herniated disc can occur at any level of the cervical spine but most commonly involves the discs between C5-C6 and C6-C7, the two lowest areas in the cervical spine.

Symptoms of Cervical Disc Herniation

Symptoms can vary depending on the location and severity of the herniation, as well as the specific nerves affected. Common signs include:

  • Neck pain that may be sharp, burning, or radiating
  • Pain radiating into the shoulder, arm, or hand
  • Numbness or tingling in the arms or fingers
  • Muscle weakness in the arms
  • Limited neck range of motion

In severe cases, balance issues or coordination problems may occur if the spinal cord is compressed (cervical myelopathy).

If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, especially if they worsen over time or interfere with daily life, we recommend scheduling a thorough evaluation with our spine specialists.

What Causes a Herniated Disc in the Neck?

Cervical disc herniation often results from a combination of age-related degeneration and mechanical stress on the spine. Contributing causes may include:

  • Disc degeneration: As we age, spinal discs lose water content, making them more prone to tears or rupture.
  • Repetitive strain: Repeated neck movements, poor posture, or heavy lifting can place stress on cervical discs.
  • Trauma or injury: A fall, car accident, or sudden twisting motion may cause a disc to herniate suddenly.
  • Genetic predisposition: Some individuals are more prone to disc degeneration or structural issues in the spine.

Risk Factors

Several factors may increase your risk of developing a herniated disc in the neck:

  • Being over the age of 40
  • Sedentary lifestyle or prolonged sitting
  • Frequent heavy lifting or manual labor
  • Smoking, which reduces disc nutrition and accelerates degeneration
  • Poor posture, especially from tech use or computer work
  • Previous neck injury or spine surgery

How Is a Cervical Disc Herniation Diagnosed?

At The Orthopedic Partners, we begin with a detailed medical history and a thorough physical examination to assess your symptoms, nerve function, and range of motion. Imaging studies are often used to confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent of the herniation:

  • X-rays may rule out other structural issues
  • MRI is the gold standard for identifying herniated discs and nerve compression
  • CT scans or myelograms may be used in certain complex cases

Treatment Options for a Herniated Disc in the Neck

We tailor treatment based on the severity of symptoms, overall health, and whether conservative care has been effective. Most patients improve without surgery.

Non-surgical Treatments

  • Activity modification: Avoiding motions that worsen pain while maintaining light activity
  • Physical therapy: Stretching, posture training, and strengthening exercises to support the cervical spine
  • Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, or steroids to reduce pain and swelling
  • Cervical epidural steroid injections: Targeted relief for nerve inflammation
  • Collar or soft brace: Short-term support in acute cases

Surgical Treatment

If non-surgical treatments fail or symptoms worsen, surgery may be recommended.

  • Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF): The most common surgery for cervical disc herniation. The damaged disc is removed through a small incision in the front of the neck, and the vertebrae are fused to stabilize the spine.
  • Cervical Disc Replacement: A motion-preserving alternative to fusion, ideal for select patients with disc disease and no spinal instability.
  • Posterior Cervical Decompression: In cases involving multilevel disc herniation or spinal cord compression from the back.
  • Cervical Laminoplasty: Opens the spinal canal to relieve spinal cord compression while preserving motion.

At The Orthopedic Partners, we also use robotic-assisted and computer-navigated surgical techniques to enhance precision and improve long-term outcomes for eligible cases.

When to See a Spine Specialist

If you’re experiencing ongoing neck pain, arm weakness, or signs of nerve compression, it’s important to consult a spine specialist. Prompt diagnosis and treatment of a herniated disc in the neck can prevent long-term nerve damage and help you return to your normal routine more quickly.

Get Expert Care for Cervical Disc Herniation

Our spine team at The Orthopedic Partners is here to help you find lasting relief from cervical disc herniation. Whether you need physical therapy or a minimally invasive procedure, we’ll work with you to create a treatment plan that fits your lifestyle and goals.

Schedule an evaluation and take the first step toward feeling better today.