Herniated discs affect a large portion of the population, so it is easy to see why so many patients are undergoing procedures to place an artificial cervical disc Plano TX. Although invasive, the surgery offers effective pain relief while improving a patient’s mobility after developing a herniated disc.  Considering one-thirds of adults 20 years of age and older show signs of a herniated disc, understanding this condition is essential. Using this guide, you will understand the causes, signs, and treatment options for herniated discs.

Causes

Age is one of the main factors that contribute to a person developing a herniated disc. As a person ages, the spine begins to contract and shrink. This causes the intervertebral discs to weaken and thin out, resulting in a herniated disc.

Continuous lifting or heavy objects or constant bedding can also weaken the vertebrae. Or, automobile accidents or work-related injuries may  damage the discs in your spine.

While each patient’s cause may be different, a herniated disc causes the same symptoms for most people.

Symptoms

Discs act as cushions between each vertebrae of your spine. A herniated disc occurs when the softer, middle part of the disc pushes out from the interior section. This places friction on nearby nerves, so your first symptom of the herniated disc will be pain.

The pain may begin in the back, but radiate through the lower back, buttocks, and legs.  If your herniated disc is in your neck, the pain will center around the neck, arms, and shoulders. Here are a few other symptoms of a herniated disc:

• Numbness and Tingling – Episodes of numbness and tingling sensations will occur in the limbs nearest to the herniated disc.
• Weakness – The affected nerves that stem from the herniated disc will weaken the connected muscles.
• Immobility – The intense pain may decrease your ability to walk, sit, stand, and move in a normal manner.

Treatment Options

Over-the-counter and prescription medications are necessary for managing the pain associated with a disc herniation. However, these medications will not repair any physical damage. Fortunately, an artificial cervical disc Plano TX can be surgically placed to correct the hernia.

During the procedure, surgeons will insert the artificial disc in between two vertebrae of the neck. The new disc will improve the mobility of the neck and reduce pain from the disc herniation without the worry of complications after more involved spinal surgeries.

If you are suffering with a herniated disc in your neck, contact the Brain & Spine Center of Texas at (972) 943-9779 to learn if an artificial cervical disc Plano TX is right for you.