The neck provides the connection between the head and the body. There are 7 vertebrae in the neck region. Neck movements occur thanks to the disc and joints. Neck pain is a very common condition among the adult age group and seriously affects the quality of life.
What are the Causes of Neck Pain?
Neck pain can originate from tissues of the spine such as bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, and nerves. The most common cause of neck pain is mechanical type neck pain, which includes soft tissue strains. Posture disorder is the main cause of this type of pain. It is especially common in people who work at a desk or computer in a forward-leaning position all day long. This pain gradually decreases within 2-3 days and disappears within 1-2 weeks. This pain manifests itself in the form of attacks in some periods.
Apart from these, neck hernia, degeneration of neck bones, narrowing of the spinal canal, rheumatic diseases may also cause neck pain.
What are the Findings of Neck Hernia?
Under normal conditions, the disc structure consists of a hard outer sheath between two vertebrae and a gel-like soft tissue inside. In neck hernia, it occurs when the outer sheath weakens or ruptures and the inner gel structure shifts outward and this situation puts pressure on the nerves. Arm pain is often more severe than neck pain, as it compresses the nerve roots. Depending on the level of pressure on the nerve roots, there may be weakness and numbness in the arm and hand muscles. In untreated advanced cases, very serious conditions such as weakness in the legs and urinary incontinence may develop due to the compression of the spinal cord.
How is Neck Hernia Diagnosed?
In the diagnosis of the disease, direct radiography, computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance (MR) examination are used, respectively.
Neck Hernia Treated?
Medical treatment is performed with exercise programs that strengthen the neck muscles, injection applications or surgery.
For detailed information and treatment, please contact your doctor.
