Cervical disc herniation refers to a condition where the gel-like substance in the spinal discs protrudes, causing pressure on the surrounding nerves. This condition can lead to debilitating pain, which may require medical intervention to manage effectively. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the four primary stages of cervical disc herniation and how physiotherapy and chiropractic care can support recovery at each stage.
Stage One: Disc Degeneration
The initial stage of cervical disc herniation is characterized by disc degeneration. As we age, the spinal discs dry out, weakening their structural integrity and making them more susceptible to herniation. At this stage, patients may not exhibit any significant symptoms. However, preventative measures such as stretching and strengthening exercises can help slow down this process, reducing the likelihood of further degeneration.
Stage Two: Prolapse
At the prolapsed or bulging stage, the disc begins protruding into the spinal canal, placing pressure on the nerves. This can cause numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms and shoulders. At this stage, physiotherapy can help alleviate symptoms by improving posture and providing stretches and exercises to alleviate pressure on the affected nerves.
Stage Three: Extrusion
If the spinal disc continues to degenerate, it can break open, leading to extrusion. This stage is characterized by a fragment of the spinal disc protruding past its usual boundary. Symptoms at this stage can include severe pain, reduced range of motion, and muscle weakness. Chiropractic care can provide gentle manipulation and manual techniques to alleviate pain and improve spinal alignment.
Stage Four: Sequestration
The final stage of cervical disc herniation is sequestration, where the fragment of the spinal disc completely separates from the disc’s outer ring and may require surgical intervention. However, many patients can experience relief from symptoms with a non-invasive approach, such as physiotherapy and chiropractic care. These treatments can help alleviate pain and improve mobility, making recovery more manageable.
In conclusion, the four stages of cervical disc herniation can vary in severity, with physiotherapy and chiropractic care being effective approaches to managing symptoms. Whether you’re experiencing mild discomfort or severe pain, a qualified healthcare professional can help create an individualized treatment plan to support optimal recovery. By taking preventative measures and seeking medical attention for symptoms, you can prevent further degeneration and improve your overall quality of life.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Nitin Nair, BPT, R/TRO DIP, PT, or another Kitchener physiotherapy practitioner at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
