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What Is Slippage After Cervical Neck Surgery?

Although surgery might be necessary to treat an underlying disorder in the cervical spine, it is still possible to experience disc slippage following cervical neck surgery. Slippage, otherwise known as a herniated disc, occurs where one section of the spine slips out of place, necessitating a variety of treatments to properly cure.

  1. Cervical Spine

    • The cervical spine is the upper area of the spinal column, containing seven distinct vertebrae. The top two vertebrae in the cervical spine are designed to facilitate the ability to turn the head to either side, while the remaining cervical vertebrae act to allow for tilting and inclining of the neck itself.

    Slippage Causes

    • Disc slippage in the spine can be caused by any number of reasons, including injury from heavy lifting or impact. Additionally, the threat of disc slippage can be increased where spinal mobility is compromised or otherwise impaired (as with individuals exhibiting chronically poor posture).

    Slippage

    • Disc slippage following cervical neck surgery involves a misalignment of one of the seven cervical vertebrae. This can result in a number of symptoms, including radiating pain from the neck to the upper arms and shoulders, tingling, numbness, spasms in the neck muscles or surrounding areas or general feelings of weakness or fatigue.

    Treatments

    • Additional surgery is one of the last resorts for dealing with a slipped disc. Before employing surgical means, rest, icing and the use of anti-inflammatory medications are used to provide some measure of relief. Next, physical therapy techniques are employed to restore proper functionality to the area.

    Considerations

    • Note that while surgery is often a last resort, immediate medical attention is required with some cases of disc slippage following cervical neck surgery. If your symptoms are progressively worsening, triggering an increased loss of movement, sensation or even bladder control, seek medical aid immediately. Likewise, seek treatment where pain worsens while resting or at night.

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