How does nonsurgical spinal decompression therapy speed up your recovery?

Do you experience shooting pain in your neck or lower back? Check if it’s herniated disc! Would you like to know how spinal decompression therapy can help speed up your recovery? Keep reading this article to understand the causes and symptoms of a herniated disc and how spinal decompression really helps.

What is a herniated disc?

Herniated disc issue occurs as a result of your spinal disc being degenerated due to age-related wear and tear. Apart from wear and tear, factors such as loss of spinal fluid, tiny crack development in the disc, lifting heavy objects with your back, trauma, twisting and turning in an awkward position, and obesity cause herniated discs.

The major symptom of the herniated disc is a shooting pain in the neck that passes through the shoulder, arms, buttocks, and legs especially while moving in certain positions. Other symptoms include numbness or tingling in the affected body parts, muscle weakness, and restricted range of motion.

Traction therapy

Traction therapy is a dated technology where slings, rope, and pulleys are used to pull the patient in opposite directions mechanically to create a stretch. As it’s not possible to focus on a specific spinal area, even the intensity of force is also not monitored easily. Hence, there is a possibility of stretching nearby areas as well along with muscle guarding (painful muscle spasm) due to slack and grip. This process involves only the overall stretching and not just the target region. Physical therapists use traction therapy.

Why should you opt for spinal decompression treatment?

Spinal decompression therapy is a conservative treatment method widely employed for people with a herniated disc. Unlike other conservative therapeutic modalities such as medications, physical therapy, and steroid treatment, spinal decompression focuses on healing the root cause of pain rather than fixing the symptoms temporarily. It is a non-invasive, drug-free, and needle-free treatment.

All you have to do is just lie down on the spinal decompression table. Once you lie down, it will stretch out your neck or lower back thereby developing a negative pressure, otherwise called the vacuum effect, in your spine. We are well aware that fluids always move from higher pressure to lower pressure. Hence, the built-up vacuum helps in fluid movement back to the affected herniated disc. This easy movement of the spinal fluid reduces the pressure created on the pinched nerves, thereby causing a significant reduction in pain.
Thus, you can experience significant long-lasting relief from pain naturally and quickly. However, make sure to follow the recommended number of sessions without fail. As spinal decompression treatment involves mechanical movements only, there are no side effects. You can repeat it as much as possible depending on the severity and duration of symptoms.

Is there any research evidence to support the effect of spinal decompression therapy on herniated discs?

Yes. Several studies highlight the use of spinal decompression therapy with physiotherapy in reducing pain significantly while improving the quality of life. For pain reduction, the height of the discs has been increased in order to reabsorb more spinal fluid back into the affected herniated disc portions. And this condition has been achieved by using the combination of core stabilization exercises and spinal decompression therapy.

Here is the list of evidence that highlights how spinal decompression therapy can speed up the recovery phase:

• A 2015 research study reported that combinational therapy (spinal decompression + general traction) is effective in improving pain, disability, and straight leg raise (SLR) ability of patients with a herniated disc. They underwent this treatment thrice a week over 4 weeks.
• A 2010 randomized trial study reported that non-surgical spinal decompression treatment is associated with pain reduction as well as an increase in disc height within 6 weeks. The researchers confirmed that the pain could be reduced due to the restoration of spinal disc height so that the fluid can pass through the affected parts.
• Another 2017 research study also revealed that spinal decompression therapy, in combination with physiotherapy, can effectively treat lumbar herniated discs by reducing pain, improving functional restoration, and reducing the thickness of herniation.
The above-listed studies reported that the combinational treatment (exercise therapy + spinal decompression) was more effective than exercise therapy alone.
Final Thoughts Did your doctor recommend surgery as the only last resort to get rid of herniated disc pain? Make sure to try spinal decompression therapy. Schedule an appointment with ANSSI Wellness for an initial consultation and our medical team will determine if you are eligible for spinal decompression therapy. In case you are found eligible, our doctors will start your treatment right away. Contact us to find out how spinal decompression therapy helped our patients to experience significant relief from symptoms, compared to other treatment modalities.

References
• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25729196/
• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20615252/
• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28505956/




For more information about the benefits of non-surgical spinal decompression therapy, contact ANSSI Wellness at +91 9004726844 or +91 9920936844.

1) Can a bulging disc heal on its own?

Yes, in many cases, the bulging disc symptoms go away after a period of time.

2) Can MRI show a bulging disc?

MRI is the best diagnostic test to detect herniated & bulging discs.

3) Will a massage help a bulging disc?

Massage can provide short-term relief from chronic back pain caused by a bulging disc.

Are Both Spinal Decompression And Traction Therapy The Same?

Introduction

Nowadays, people have started looking for alternative non-invasive methods to get rid of chronic back and neck pain, rather than opting for surgery. If conservative modalities such as medications and steroid treatment do not work due to the occurrence of side effects, here come alternative methods like physical therapy, chiropractor practice, etc. While introducing new treatments like non-surgical spinal decompression to patients, they immediately ask whether it is as same as traction therapy. This article aims to explore the fact behind this question. So, stay tuned! Comparing multiple treatments is like comparing the cart to a bicycle and then to a car. Although these are different forms of transport, can they be the same? No way! So, let’s go through the difference between traction therapy and non-surgical spinal decompression therapy.

Traction therapy vs. non-surgical spinal decompression therapy:

Research studies revealed that the controlled mechanical process of spinal stretching and relaxation can deliver faster pain relief. It’s the intra-disc high pressure that causes the spinal disc to bulge or slip. To get rid of that pressure, chiropractors or physiotherapists use spinal decompression or traction therapy respectively.

Traction therapy

Traction therapy is a dated technology where slings, rope, and pulleys are used to pull the patient in opposite directions mechanically to create a stretch. As it’s not possible to focus on a specific spinal area, even the intensity of force is also not monitored easily. Hence, there is a possibility of stretching nearby areas as well along with muscle guarding (painful muscle spasm) due to slack and grip. This process involves only the overall stretching and not just the target region. Physical therapists use traction therapy.

Non-surgical spinal decompression therapy

Spinal decompression therapy, unlike traction, is performed on a computerized table that has multiple segments. Hence, it’s possible to change the angles of the application while focusing on specific discs. You can even separate the table into parts in order to stretch and release either the neck (cervical) region or the lower back (lumbar) region.
Since the table is computerized, the force applied will be constant via 7 sensors, thereby overcoming muscle guarding. There will be zero chance of human error as well. Even the force application is monitored automatically where the release occurs in every millisecond interval. The patient has to just lie on the computerized table by keeping the face upwards in the supine position. Furthermore, the table has 8 varied programs that offer multiple stretch protocols to both the posterior and anterior aspects of the spine region.
Thus, spinal decompression can reduce intradiscal pressure, increase circulation, decrease inflammation, improves mobility, and experience a positive physiological change. During the single decompression treatment, all it does is just hold and release 50% of the force accurately and repeat again.
Since the decompression table allows doctors to target treatment areas in multiple dimensions, it is possible to customize the treatment according to the unique needs. All it involves is just changing the amount of stretch, the number of stretches and relaxation, and the time it takes to reach the peak stretch and relaxation stage. These 3 major options can customize the session according to the age, weight, and severity of the condition. Chiropractors use spinal decompression therapy.

Difference between traction and spinal decompression in a nutshell

Simply put, traction means the application of gentle tension upon the spinal region for more space in order to relieve pressure in between the discs. However, spinal decompression involves both gentle tension application along with intermittent controlled stretching and relaxation for tension relief. It basically alternates between stretching and relaxation.

In a nutshell, traction is the act of pulling or being pulled; whereas, spinal decompression is the act of pressure relief.

Final Thoughts

To know more about the differences between spinal decompression and traction treatment, schedule an appointment to determine if you are the right candidate for spinal decompression therapy. The spinal decompression machine used at ANSSI Wellness offers advanced computerized control for safe treatment. Furthermore, our non-surgical spinal decompression therapy can effectively help ease your pain without resorting to surgical procedures.

For more information about the benefits of non-surgical spinal decompression therapy, contact ANSSI Wellness at +91 9004726844 or +91 9920936844.

Lumbar Herniated Disc: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Introduction

Experiencing chronic pain in the lower back region? It could be due to a lumbar herniated disc! Read this blog for a detailed overview of lumbar herniated disc condition, its symptoms, causes and treatment options. Let’s get started!

What is a lumbar herniated disc?

To begin with, the spine present in the lower back region is called the lumbar spine. When a spinal disc in the lumbar spine region becomes herniated (abnormal protrusion/rupture), it’s termed a lumbar herniated disc. Lumbar herniated disc is quite a prevalent condition among the masses since the lower back area of the spine is the most common area where herniated disc occurs.

What are the symptoms of a lumbar herniated disc?

Before checking out the symptoms, it’s important to note that around 90% of individuals with a lumbar herniated disc don’t experience any symptoms or pain even 6 weeks after the condition develops in their body. Having said that, some people with a lumbar herniated disc experience excruciating pain in the lower back region due to the herniated disc pressing against a nearby nerve and inflaming it. Following are the common symptoms of a lumbar herniated disc:

• Constant leg pain
• Radiating nerve pain in the back of the leg
• Numbness, weakness, tingling sensation in the leg, foot, toes
• Stiffness in the lower back area, accompanied by dull pain
• Pain experienced after sitting or standing for an extended period
• Pain felt after bending/hunching forward in the waist region

What are the causes of a lumbar herniated disc?

Common risk factors or causes that contribute to a lumbar herniated disc condition are:

• Having age between 35 – 50 years
• Constantly doing jobs involving heavy lifting or physical labour
• Men are around twice more likely to develop a lumbar herniated disc than women
• Obesity increases the risk of developing a lumbar herniated disc
• Smoking accelerates disc degeneration & hinders the healing process, increasing the possibility of lumbar disc herniation
• Having a family history of spinal disc wear & tear enhances the possibility of a lumbar herniated disc

Nonsurgical treatments for a lumbar herniated disc

Opting for nonsurgical treatments for spinal disc conditions is the best thing to do because spine surgery involves a wide range of risks, potential side effects & complications.

Physical therapy

Consulting a physiotherapist to learn strengthening exercises for the lower back region & abdominal muscles can help relieve pain caused by a lumbar herniated disc.

Holistic therapies

These therapies generally focus on the body, mind & spirit to help support the healing process and overall health of a person.

Complications with Surgery

As mentioned earlier, spine surgery for a herniated disc or any other spinal condition is a very risky procedure with a lot of potential complications. These complications comprise:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Nerve injury
• Adverse body reaction to anaesthesia
• Dural tear (tear of the sac surrounding the nerves)
• Hematoma (pool of largely clotted blood) leading to nerve compression
• Recurring disc herniation
• Need for another surgery

Conclusion

A lumbar herniated disc can be a minor or major condition, depending on whether the disc herniation affects a nearby nerve or not. If you are suffering from persistent lower back pain, then schedule a Free Consultation with our Spine Specialists at your nearest ANSSI Wellness Centre. Click here to book an appointment:

Non-Surgical Ways For Bulging Disc Treatment

Introduction

Bulging disc is a common condition, particularly in older adults, wherein age-related wear and tear is the main reason. This condition involves a spinal disc ceasing its original shape & expanding, placing undue pressure on a surrounding nerve root, resulting in back or neck pain. Today, we discuss the difference between a bulging disc and herniated disc, bulging disc symptoms, causes of a bulging disc and non-surgical treatments for bulging disc.

What’s the Difference between Bulging Disc & Herniated Disc?

A herniated disc is basically the latter stage of a bulging disc condition. When left untreated, a bulging disc is likely to progress into a herniated disc which is a more severe form of spinal disorder. As per the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, the only way to obtain an accurate diagnosis of a bulging/herniated disc is via the symptoms an individual is experiencing, his/her medical history, physical examination, or a diagnostic test.

What are the symptoms of a bulging disc?

With there being an endless number of reasons for back pain, diagnosing a bulging disc as the reason behind it is quite difficult unless an imaging test is conducted straightaway. Moreover, different individuals might experience symptoms of a bulging disc differently. Having said that, the following are the common symptoms of a bulging disc:

• Back pain (especially in the upper back region)
• Pain arising in the upper back area, radiating to the chest/stomach
• Tingling
• Numbness
• Burning sensation
• Muscle spasms
• Weakness
• Walking issues

Causes of a Bulging Disc

The common causes of a bulging disc are:

• Degenerative disc disease leading to spinal osteoarthritis
• Back injury or strain
• Improper posture
• Obesity
• Inactivity
• Smoking

Non-Surgical Treatment for Bulging Disc

Depending on the severe nature of the bulging disc and the accompanying symptoms, different non-surgical treatment options can provide temporary or long-term pain relief. Following are the non-surgical treatment alternatives for bulging disc:

Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression

Physical Therapy

Doctors may prescribe physical therapy comprising exercises, massage, etc. to help boost mobility & range of motion, in addition to enhancing the strength of the back muscles. A qualified physical therapist can suggest the best & suitable exercises for you as per your condition to help reduce back pain by alleviating pressure on the nerve.

Heat or Cold Therapy

In mild cases of bulging disc, ice packs and heating pads can help relieve pain & inflammation, helping manage the condition in a conservative manner.

Conclusion

An early diagnosis and subsequent treatment for a bulging disc is key to avoiding it progressing into a herniated disc. If you are experiencing the above-mentioned symptoms of a bulging disc, then book an appointment with our spine experts at your nearest ANSSI Wellness Centre:

Spinal Cord Pain – Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatments

Having a hard time dealing with spinal cord pain? Read this comprehensive blog to get a clear idea of the common symptoms of spinal cord pain, various scans that may be conducted for its diagnosis and the subsequent treatment options.

Symptoms of spinal cord pain

The most common symptoms of spinal cord pain include:

• Unable to keep a normal posture because of pain & stiffness
• Experiencing muscle spasms at rest or while performing an activity
• Stiffness in the lower back region, leading to decreased range of motion
• Pain radiating into the hands and legs
• Numbness and tingling sensation in the arms

Diagnosis of spinal cord pain

Spinal cord pain that persists for over two weeks is usually due to an underlying condition that needs to be diagnosed. Following are some of the common diagnostic tests prescribed by doctors for detecting the reason behind spinal cord pain:

X-Ray

An x-ray of the spine can display the vertebrae structure & outline of the joints, helping doctors identify potential reasons behind the spinal cord pain which can include fractures, tumours, infections, etc.

MRI

With the help of an MRI, doctors can examine the spinal cord, nerve roots and nearby regions, in addition to any degeneration, enlargement or tumours. Moreover, an MRI with contrast can help diagnose infections & new compression fractures without spinal displacement.

CT Scan with 3D Reconstruction

This diagnostic test generates images that display boney detail in a much-enhanced manner than any other scan besides also showing nerves & soft tissue.

Electromyography or Nerve Conduction Velocity Testing

Also referred to as EMG/NCV testing, these are electrodiagnostic tests that help calculate the electrical activity of nerves & muscles, They assist in detecting the location of a pinched/compressed nerve that may be causing the spinal cord pain.

Treatments for spinal cord pain

Mild spinal cord pain is generally a result of muscle sprains or strains and can be successfully treated with heat & ice therapy combined with adequate rest. Physical therapy may also help in some cases. However, spinal cord pain that lasts for more than two weeks necessitates medical intervention for detecting the cause behind it. Irrespective of the scan results and the underlying condition detected, you will have two treatment options to choose from: Surgical & Non-Surgical Treatment.

Surgical Treatment

As the name suggests, surgical treatment involves surgery which comes with a lot of potential risks, complications and side effects such as:

• Blood clots
• Infection
• Dural tear
• Cerebrospinal fluid leakage
• Sores on the face & vision loss
• Symptoms that are repetitive/persisting
• Nerve injury & paralysis
• Death

Conclusion

Spinal cord pain that radiates into the hands, arms, legs, chest, etc., is a major cause of concern and requires immediate medical attention for ensuring quick diagnosis & appropriate treatment. If you have been suffering from chronic pain that is interfering with your daily life, then get in touch with the ANSSI Spine Specialists for Expert Consultation. Click on this link to schedule an appointment at an ANSSI Wellness Centre near you:

Neck Pain and Headache: Causes & How to Prevent It

Introduction

Neck pain can be a very annoying condition and have a negative impact on day-to-day activities. Add to it a recurring headache, and your day is sure to get spoiled! Many different conditions can be the reason behind your neck pain and headache. However, while some conditions may originate as a neck issue and lead to a headache, other instances may involve a headache evoking neck pain. Through this blog, we will explore both in detail. Let’s begin!

Why does neck pain cause headaches?

Headaches that arise from a neck condition are generally chronic in nature and differ in type as per the underlying cause. Since the cervical (connected with the neck) nerves transmit pain signals, neck issues can provoke cervicogenic headaches, resulting in neck pain, stiffness, nausea, blurred vision, etc. Similarly, a pinched nerve in the neck can initiate severe headaches caused by a condition known as occipital neuralgia.

Causes of neck pain

Various factors such as neck muscle/ligament strains, injuries and neck conditions can cause neck pain. Following are the common causes of neck pain:

• Consistent improper posture
• Desk jobs
• Stiffness in the neck muscles
• Neck injuries
• Persistent phone usage with poor neck posture
• Inappropriate sleeping positions
• Herniated or bulging disc
• Pinched nerve in the neck

Types of headaches that may cause neck pain

Specific kinds of headaches can cause pain to radiate into the neck region. Here are some examples of headaches that cause neck pain:

Migraine

Migraine is basically a recurring headache that is characterised by medium to intense pain on one particular side of the head. It may also cause symptoms like nausea & sensitivity to bright light and/or loud sounds. Neck pain prior to a migraine attack or during it is pretty common. Following are a few triggers that are known to cause migraine headaches:

• Stress
• Hormone fluctuations
• Climate changes
• Regularly skipping meals

Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders

TMJ headaches are mild aches that begin around the temple region of the head and the Temporomandibular Joint. They may sometimes be confused as ear pain. TMJ disorders that cause headaches are usually a culmination of multiple factors such as:

• Genetics
• Degeneration of muscles or ligaments
• Injury to the TMJ
• Dislocation of the TMJ
• Muscle fatigue/weakness in the TMJ
• Arthritis of the jaw

Neck problems that can cause headaches

Certain kinds of headaches can be the consequence of neck issues like injury, inflammation, chronic neck tension, etc.

Injury

Injury to the neck muscles or ligaments can cause cervicogenic headaches, also known as secondary headaches.

Inflammation

Inflammation of the muscles, nerves, tendons or joints can cause cervicogenic headaches.

Chronic Neck Tension

Muscle contractions in the neck area, face or scalp due to strain, stress, tiredness, etc., can cause headaches.

Treating a pinched nerve in the neck

A pinched nerve in the neck is generally treated via the following treatments:

Physical Therapy

Muscle strengthening & stretching exercises prescribed to you as per the location of the pinched nerve in your neck can help boost the strength of neck muscles, enhance the range of motion and alleviate neck pain.

Injections

Some doctors may recommend taking steroid injections to reduce inflammation and pain till the time the nerve is expected to recover within.

Conclusion

Treatment for neck pain & headache differs from person to person depending on various factors like the underlying condition causing it, whether the condition is severe or mild, and current symptoms. If you are experiencing neck pain & headache and suspect a spinal disorder to be the reason behind it, then book a Free Consultation with our Spine Experts. Click here to schedule an appointment:

Bulging Disc in the Neck: Causes, Symptoms & Cure

A bulging disc in the neck can lead to severe pain in the neck, shoulders, arms, back and chest areas. It may also result in weakness/numbness in the arms and fingers. Let’s get to know about this condition in detail including its various causes, symptoms and treatment options in this informative blog.

Causes of a bulging disc in the neck

A bulging disc in the neck can be caused by:

• Age-related wear and tear
• Degenerative disc disease
• Intervertebral disc disease
• Incorrect posture for a long period of time
• Obesity or being overweight
• Lack of physical activity
• Strain or acute injury due to lifting weights with poor form
• Smoking

Symptoms of a bulging disc in the neck

The common symptoms associated with a bulging disc in the neck include:

• Pain in the neck, shoulders & back regions
• Pain experienced when moving the neck
• Numbness or tingling sensation in the arms, shoulders, or fingers
• Decreased range of motion

How to cure a bulging disc in the neck?

Depending on the severity of the condition, a bulging disc in the neck can be treated by regularly performing specific neck strengthening & stretching exercises or by undergoing the non-surgical spinal decompression treatment.

Exercise

Practising exercises stipulated by a physical therapist after examining your neck condition may help relieve symptoms and pain caused by a bulging disc in the neck. These exercises will generally include a combination of gentle stretching and muscle-bolstering exercises.

The physical therapist will also typically guide regarding enhancing posture & form when performing the exercises in order to avoid potential injuries and worsening of the existing condition.

Conclusion

Many people misunderstand a bulging disc in the neck as a cervical herniated disc. It’s essential to comprehend the difference between these two conditions.

Simply speaking, a bulging disc in the neck happens when a spinal disc slips from its original position in the neck whereas a cervical herniated disc is basically the progression & worsening of the bulging disc in the neck condition.

Both of these neck conditions are more prevalent in older adults due to age-related wear & tear. If you have been diagnosed with any of these two conditions or are experiencing symptoms related to them, then get in touch with our spine specialists for a detailed consultation.

Click here to schedule an appointment at your nearest ANSSI wellness centre:

Pinched Nerve In Neck – Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment

Experiencing neck stiffness, and pain in the back, arms or legs? You may well have a pinched nerve in the neck! Know about this neck condition in detail in this exhaustive blog comprising causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options and more.

What is a pinched nerve?

A pinched nerve is basically an irritated or compressed nerve. When it occurs in the neck region, it’s referred to as cervical radiculopathy. A nerve can become irritated or compressed by nearby tissue, causing pain, tingling sensation, weakness and numbness in surrounding areas of the body.

What are the symptoms of a pinched nerve in the neck?

The common symptoms associated with a pinched nerve in the neck are:

• Mild or sharp pain in the neck, back, arms & legs
• Tingling or burning sensation
• Feeling that the hand/arm/foot is unresponsive
• Muscle fatigue
• Numbness

How common is a pinched nerve?

A pinched nerve is a relatively common condition, with people of all ages affected by it. However, older adults above age 50 are more susceptible to it courtesy of age-related degeneration of various body parts and different types of arthritis.

How to diagnose a pinched nerve?

A physical examination of the neck, arms, shoulders & hands is generally conducted by a doctor to help detect a pinched nerve. Specific movements of the neck & arms and the pain caused by them also assist in the diagnosis of a pinched nerve and its source.

Tests

There are a number of diagnostic tests that could be conducted for detecting a pinched nerve. Let’s check them out in brief:

The Spurling Test

This test comprises neck extension, rotation of the head to the specific side where the symptoms are being experienced, and exerting mild pressure on the head from top to bottom.

X-Ray

By generating images of the alignment of the vertebrae in the neck, an x-ray can help identify a pinched nerve in the neck region. It can also display the narrowing of the disc spaces & foramen between the vertebrae.

CT Scan

A CT scan may help detect a pinched nerve in the neck by providing more detailed images of the spine & bones in the neck area as compared to an x-ray.

MRI Scan

A doctor can view detailed images of the soft tissues, vertebrae & nerves in the neck region with an MRI. It can help understand the severity of the nerve compression, diagnose a herniated disc as the potential reason and detect any damage to the spinal cord.

EMG

EMG stands for Electromyography. It’s a diagnostic test that is used to calculate the speed of sending electrical impulses along a nerve. It helps assess whether a specific nerve or group of nerves are functioning in a normal manner, thus assisting in identifying a pinched nerve in the neck.

Will a pinched nerve go away on its own? How long does it take?

In the majority of cases, a pinched nerve may go away on its own after a period of around 4-6 weeks.

What are the causes of a pinched nerve in the neck?

Research studies have found age-linked wear and tear to be the main cause of a pinched nerve in the neck.

Other common causes comprise:

• Heavy weightlifting on a regular basis
• Frequent usage of driving equipment which vibrates
• Playing golf
• Diving

How is a pinched nerve in the neck treated?

In the case that a pinched nerve in the neck doesn’t go away in 4-6 weeks with adequate rest, then medical intervention is necessary for alleviating the pressure on the nerve.

Non-surgical treatments are typically recommended as they don’t involve the high risks involved in surgical treatments. The most popular non-surgical treatments include:

Ice and heat therapy

Applying ice and heat to the area with swelling should help ease the symptoms caused by a pinched nerve in the neck and provide temporary pain relief. Follow the instructions of the doctor with regard to using ice or heat therapy.

Conclusion

A pinched nerve in the neck is a painful condition that is more prevalent in men than women and affects people from the age group of 50-54 the most. Early diagnosis is crucial to avoid the worsening of the condition and subsequent complications. Are you experiencing symptoms of a pinched nerve in the neck? Contact our spine experts at the earliest for highly valuable guidance and consultation. Click here to book an appointment at your nearest ANSSI wellness centre:

Herniated Disc in Neck: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

Diagnosed with a herniated disc in the neck? This blog will educate you on all the vital information about this condition, including what is a herniated disc in the neck, common symptoms, causes, preventive measures, diagnosis & best treatment alternatives. Let’s begin!

What is a herniated disc in the neck?

A herniated disc is basically a slipped disc or ruptured disc. When discs in the neck region become herniated, they are referred to as cervical herniated discs. Disc herniation is a process wherein the degeneration of the disc results in the soft inner gel leaking back into the spinal canal. On reaching the spinal canal, the gel then exerts pressure on the nerve. This leads to pain radiating down the nerve, culminating in sciatica or leg/arm pain.

What are the most common herniated disc in neck symptoms?

Some of the common symptoms of a herniated disc in the neck include:

• Mild to severe neck or back pain
• Pain, weakness/numbness or tingling sensation in the neck, shoulder, back, arms & legs
• Having issues maintaining balance & coordination while walking

What causes a herniated disc in the neck?

A herniated disc in the neck may be caused by:

• Age-related wear & tear of discs
• Incorrect posture for a consistent period of time
• Sudden awkward movement leading to strain & damaged disc
• Injury or trauma to the disc
• Family history of a herniated disc in the neck

How to diagnose herniated disc in the neck?

Diagnosis of a herniated disc in the neck is generally made by assessing past medical history and conducting a physical examination of the neck, arms & lower body along with diagnostic tests like X-rays, MRI, CT scans, etc.

What is the best treatment for a herniated disc in the neck?

Conservative treatment options like avoiding awkward neck positions, physical therapy and non-surgical spinal decompression treatment can help treat a herniated disc in the neck without having to undergo surgery.

Avoiding painful positions

Refraining from painful neck or back positions when combined with regular exercise and maintaining an appropriate posture & healthy body weight can help treat a herniated disc in the neck.

Physical therapy

Specialised stretching and strengthening exercises designed as per the severity of your neck condition can help reduce the pain caused by a herniated disc.

How to avoid herniated disc in the neck?

The best method by which you can avoid a herniated disc in the neck region is by exercising your neck muscles regularly and maintaining a correct posture and a healthy weight.

Conclusion

It’s important to be aware that herniated discs are a pretty common condition, with people aged 35 to 55 years at a higher risk of developing this condition. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, then contact our spine experts at the earliest for an extensive consultation. Click here to book your appointment:

FAQs

Cervical Spondylosis: Treatment, Risks, Causes and Symptoms

Suffering from cervical spondylosis? Want to know in detail about this neck condition? Read this highly informative blog to get a detailed overview of what is cervical spondylosis, its risk factors, causes, common symptoms, cervical spondylosis treatment options & preventive measures. Let’s get started!

What is cervical spondylosis?

A very common condition in senior citizens, cervical spondylosis is a general term used for age-related wear & tear that primarily affects the spinal discs in the neck region. It basically comprises the natural deterioration of discs, ligaments, cartilage & bones in the neck. This typically results in neck stiffness, pain and related symptoms. In chronic cases, cervical spondylosis may comprise a herniated disc, bone spurs or pinched nerves.

Who is most at risk of getting cervical spondylosis?

Following are the risk factors associated with cervical spondylosis:

• Age above 60 years
• Family history of cervical spondylosis
• Long-term neck strain
• Prior neck injury or trauma
• Regular heavy lifting
• Cigarette smoking
• Anxiety or depression
• Regular exposure to a large amount of vibration, such as bus/truck drivers

What causes cervical spondylosis?

Also sometimes referred to as arthritis/osteoarthritis of the neck, cervical spondylosis may be caused by wear & tear related changes like:

• Discs degeneration
• Herniated discs
• Dehydrated discs
• Bone spurs
• Ligaments stiffness
• Osteoarthritis

Most common cervical spondylosis symptoms

Many individuals with cervical spondylosis don’t experience any symptoms at all. In case the symptoms arise, they may include:

• Neck stiffness and/or pain
• Aching soreness in the neck region
• Muscle spasms in the neck & shoulders
• Headaches
• Clicking/grinding/popping noise when moving the neck
• Dizziness, absence of coordination and loss of balance
• Weakness & numbness in the legs, feet, arms, hands or fingers

What are common cervical spondylosis treatments?

In the majority of instances, cervical spondylosis can be treated via conservative treatment options such as ice & heat therapy, massage, physical therapy and spinal decompression treatment. Let’s check them out one by one.

Ice, heat and massage

A combination of massage with ice & heat therapy can help alleviate the symptoms of cervical spondylosis. Application of heat/ice to the neck area for around 20 minutes many times during the day may help provide favourable results. Massage by a certified professional might also assist in relieving symptoms such as neck pain and stiffness.

Physical therapy

Personalised neck muscle strengthening, as well as stretching exercises, may help ease the various symptoms of cervical spondylosis while also enhancing the posture of the forward head and back.

What are the best ways to prevent cervical spondylosis?

Preventing cervical spondylosis is not possible since it’s an age-related condition. However, precautions such as not smoking, maintaining proper posture, avoiding awkward neck positions, and doing regular neck exercises may help reduce the risk of cervical spondylosis.

Conclusion

Do you know over 85% of people above 60 years of age are affected by cervical spondylosis? However, the majority of these people don’t experience any symptoms whatsoever. If you are experiencing any cervical spondylosis symptoms, then get in touch with the Spine Specialists at ANSSI Wellness Centre for an Expert Consultation. Click here to schedule an appointment:

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