It consists of 7 vertebrae from the base of the skull. In the middle of each vertebral body is the spinal cord, which is the continuation of the brain. The senses that return to the brain from various parts of the body or the orders that are distributed from the brain to the body travel within the spinal cord. In the neck region, the nerves coming out of the level of each vertebral body spread to the arm and back, providing the sensation and movement of these regions.
The disc tissue, which we call the intervertebral cushion, has the outer part (anulus fibrosus) and the inner part (nucleus pulposus). Neck hernia occurs as a result of the gelatinous inner part tearing the outer part, which consists of a stronger connective tissue, and compressing the spinal cord and nerves.
What are the reasons?
The main difference from lumbar hernia is that partial or complete weakness occurs in the whole body as a result of pressure not only on the nerves but also on the spinal cord itself. Since the spinal cord terminates at the level of the first lumbar vertebra and there are only nerves going to the foot in the lower lumbar vertebrae, paralysis is seen in the area where a certain nerve is distributed in herniated disc.
What are the factors that trigger neck hernia?
Some misapplications in our lifestyle first manifest with neck pain and stiffness in the muscles, and then they can appear dramatically as hernias. To briefly exemplify them;
* Falling asleep in front of the TV
* Staying under the air conditioner for a long time
* Going out with wet hair without drying
* Carrying a load on the shoulders/back unbalanced
* Traveling with the window open
* Working at a computer or desk for a long time
Does the line of work have an effect? In which business lines is it more common?
As all kinds of diseases are related to work, neck hernia is common among desk workers, heavy lifters and those who are exposed to constant trauma.
Op. Dr. E. Onur Kulaksızoğlu
Specialist in Neurosurgery
