Neck Pain Treatment for a Herniated Disc

"Herniated disc" is a term used to describe the rupture of one or more of the shock-absorbing pads that cushion the bones of the spine. The condition is also known as a ruptured disc. When a herniated disc occurs in the neck (cervical vertebrae), it can trigger a number of symptoms, including intense or aching pain. Relief from this pain is available through both nonsurgical and surgical means.

Understanding Herniated Disc Symptoms

• According to the website of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, the pain from a herniated cervical disc can extend from your neck down between your shoulder blades. In some cases, the pain may also radiate down your arm to your hands and fingers and may be accompanied by tingling or numbness. You may notice changes in the intensity of your symptoms based on the position or movement of your neck.

Nonsurgical Treatments

• In most situations, herniated neck disc pain can be treated effectively without the need for surgery. After your doctor diagnoses your condition, he may suggest treating your neck with a cold source such as an ice pack for the first 48 hours. By lowering the temperature in your neck, this treatment will reduce blood flow and diminish the severity of your pain. It will also help reduce any swelling or muscle spasms.

  After this 48-hour period, your doctor may switch your treatment to a heat source such as a heating pad. The heat will increase the blood flow to your neck and relax the tissues surrounding the disc. It will also encourage the removal of tissue toxins built up as a result of muscle spasms or the initial neck injury. Typically, cold or heat treatments are given in 15 to 20 minute sessions periodically throughout the day. Be sure not to place a cold or heat source in direct contact with your skin.

  You can also ease the pain of a herniated disc with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medications such as naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn), aspirin or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin). You may also use an acetaminophen product such Tylenol. If your pain is severe, your doctor may prescribe temporary use of a narcotic painkiller such as codeine.

  To relieve pain associated with muscle spasms, your doctor may prescribe one of several different muscle-relaxant medications, including cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril) or diazepam (Valium). Be aware that each of these products carries significant potential for serious side effects. Ask your doctor about the risks and benefits of any product he may prescribe or recommend.

  In some cases, your doctor may also recommend physical therapy as part of a plan to treat cervical disc pain. If this is the case, he may transmit specific instructions to a licensed physical therapist, who will supervise your exercise routine.

Surgical Treatments

• If other methods are unsuccessful in controlling your pain, your doctor may recommend surgery. Potential options include partial removal of your affected disc (diskectomy) and a related procedure to remove part of your vertebra (laminotomy). Talk to your surgeon for a full explanation of your surgical options.