Neck Hernia

In the lower part of the spine, the intervertebral discs are intervertebral structures that are located between the vertebrae and have various functions. The outer part of the disc is made of collagen fibers and the inner part is made of gel. The discs absorb the impacts on the spine and prevent these impacts from damaging the vertebrae and nerve roots, increase the flexibility of the spine, thus providing mobility in the lumbar and back region, keeping the vertebrae in place and providing stability, helping to protect the spinal cord and nerve roots.

A cervical herniated disc occurs when the discs in the cervical region of the spine slip out of place or rupture. This usually occurs between the C4-C5, C5-C6 and C6-C7 vertebrae. The discs in these areas protect the spinal cord and the surrounding nerve roots. If they herniate, they can press on the nerve roots and cause symptoms such as pain, numbness or weakness that radiate into the neck and arm.

Neck Hernia Causes

It is a condition that occurs when the discs between the vertebrae slip or tear, weakening the outer part of the disc (annulus fibrosus) and causing the inner part (nucleus pulposus) to bulge outwards.

Neck Hernia Symptoms

A cervical herniated disc can cause a variety of symptoms when the discs slip out of place or rupture and press on the nerve roots or spinal cord.

  • Pain in the neck area, radiating to the shoulders and back of the arms. This pain can often be sharp or throbbing.
  • Numbness or tingling sensation in the arms, especially the fingers (usually the thumb, index finger and middle finger).
  • Weakness of the arms or hands, difficulty grasping objects.
  • In some patients, a herniated disc in the neck can cause headaches. This is often associated with tension in the neck and shoulders.
  • Difficulty maintaining normal posture due to neck pain.
  • Restriction in neck movements, difficulty turning or tilting the head.
  • Dizziness or a feeling of imbalance in some patients as a result of pressure on the nerve roots

Neck Hernia Treatment

  1. Conservative Treatment: Physical therapy aims to strengthen the muscles and increase flexibility.
  2. Epidural Steroid Injections: These injections, which are given close to the nerve roots, can relieve pain by reducing inflammation.
  3. Surgical Intervention:
    Microdiscectomy (removal of a herniated disc fragment),
    Microdecompression (removal of the part of the spine (lamina) that presses on the nerve roots)
  4. Spinal Fusion (fusion of vertebrae, thus increasing stability)
    Rehabilitation Physical therapy after surgery is an important part of the recovery process and improves mobility.
  5. Lifestyle Changes: It is important to exercise regularly, control weight, adopt ergonomic sitting positions and avoid heavy lifting.

What You Should Know About Neck Hernia Surgery

Surgery can be used to remove the herniated disc fragment, reduce pressure on the nerve roots and relieve pain, numbness and other symptoms. The surgery is performed using special magnification devices (microscope) and fine surgical instruments. Microsurgery prevents damage to surrounding tissues and nerve roots. Compared to traditional methods, smaller incisions are made, which speeds up the healing process and reduces pain levels. The duration of surgery is usually between 1-2 hours. However, this can vary depending on the size and location of the hernia. Patients can usually be discharged within 1 day.

Operation Durationi

Anesthesia

Hospitalization

Recovery Time

Return to Work

1-2 Hours

General Anesthesia

1Day

2 Weeks

7 Days