Cervical Herniated Disc

A cervical herniated disc occurs when the soft inner material of a disc in the neck pushes through a tear or weak spot in the outer layer.
When this disc material presses on nearby nerves or the spinal cord, it can cause pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness in the neck, shoulders, arms, and hands.

This condition is one of the most common causes of neck and arm pain, and with proper diagnosis and treatment, many patients experience significant relief.

Herniated discs in the neck can develop gradually or suddenly.
Common causes include:

• Degenerative wear and tear with age (most common cause)
• Sudden injuries such as car accidents or sports trauma
• Repetitive strain from posture, lifting, or certain occupations
• Genetic predisposition to weaker discs
• Poor ergonomics or prolonged device use (“tech neck”)

A cervical herniated disc can cause a variety of symptoms depending on which nerves or areas of the spinal cord are affected:

• Neck pain that may feel like a dull ache, stiffness, or sharp, stabbing discomfort.
• Radiating pain down the shoulder, arm, or into the hand or fingers, often described as burning or shooting.
• Numbness or tingling (“pins and needles”) in the arms, hands, or fingers.
• Weakness in the arms or hands, leading to difficulty gripping or lifting objects.
• Loss of coordination or balance, which may indicate spinal cord involvement (cervical myelopathy).
• Urgent symptoms: sudden weakness, severe balance problems, or changes in bowel or bladder control — these require immediate medical attention.

Dr. Tristan Fried uses a comprehensive approach to confirm the diagnosis:

Medical History & Physical Exam

• Discussion of symptoms, lifestyle, and any prior spine issues.
• Neurological exam checking reflexes, strength, and sensation.

Imaging Studies

• X-rays: Show alignment and structural changes.
• MRI: Best for visualizing discs and nerve compression. 
• CT scans or nerve tests: Sometimes used for complex cases.

Most cervical herniated discs can be managed without surgery, especially when symptoms are mild to moderate.
Dr. Fried focuses on conservative care first, using surgery only when absolutely necessary or when there are progressive neurological symptoms.