Cervical disc herniation is a condition that can cause pain or numbness in your neck, shoulders, arms or hands. This condition happens when one of the discs in your spine gets damaged or ruptured, pressing on the nerves in your spinal cord. If you have recently been diagnosed with cervical disc herniation one of the questions you may be asking is how long will it last? The answer to that question is not always straightforward. In this blog post, we will discuss the factors that affect the duration of cervical disc herniation and the treatments that can help you recover.
The duration of cervical disc herniation varies depending on several factors including the severity of the herniation, the patient’s overall health and their response to treatment. In general, minor herniations can subside within a few weeks or months while more severe herniations may take up to a year or longer to heal completely.
One of the primary treatments for cervical disc herniation is physiotherapy. Physiotherapy can help improve your range of motion, reduce pain, and enhance your overall quality of life. A physiotherapist can work with you to create an exercise program that is tailored to your specific needs, which can speed up your recovery time significantly.
Another treatment option for cervical disc herniation is chiropractic care. Chiropractors may use spinal manipulation techniques to realign the spine and relieve the pressure on the damaged disc. This can reduce the pain and other symptoms associated with cervical disc herniation.
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to address cervical disc herniation. This is often the case when a patient experiences severe pain or difficulty moving, even after attempting more conservative treatments like physio and chiropractic care. Surgery can help relieve the pressure on the nerve roots and provide long-lasting relief from pain and other symptoms.
It is important to note that the duration of cervical disc herniation can be influenced significantly by the patient’s willingness to make lifestyle changes. For instance, maintaining a healthy diet and incorporating regular exercise can help improve your overall physical health, which will promote healing and reduce the likelihood of developing future herniations.
Cervical disc herniation can be a debilitating condition, but the good news is that it is often treatable with the right care and approach. The duration of cervical disc herniation varies depending on the severity of the herniation, the patient’s health, and their response to treatment. Physiotherapy, chiropractic care, surgery, and lifestyle changes can all facilitate healing and improve your quality of life. If you suspect that you may have cervical disc herniation, it is essential to seek prompt medical attention to receive the appropriate treatment.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Dr. Tyler Baron, BASc, DC or another Kitchener chiropractor at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
