Herniated disc in the neck
Understand how neck movement, loading and muscle control can influence symptoms around a cervical disc herniation.
What is a herniated disc in the neck?
A herniated disc is a condition in which the soft inner center of the intervertebral disc (nucleus pulposus) comes out of its shell (annulus fibrosus). This results in pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots, causing pain, numbness and weakness in the arms and shoulders.
The intervertebral discs function as shock absorbers between the vertebrae. They provide flexibility and help absorb the load.
The relationship with muscle imbalance
A herniated disc is often the result of uneven loading of the neck.
1. Muscle imbalance
Ideally, the muscles around the neck and spine work in harmony. In a muscle imbalance, some muscles (such as the trapezius or sternocleidomastoid) shorten and become overly tight, while others weaken. This uneven force pulls the neck into an poor position, with the head often tilting or moving forward.
2. Uneven load
When the muscles do not support the head symmetrically, its weight (about 5-6 kg) is distributed unevenly on the intervertebral discs. Instead of the disc absorbing the pressure evenly, it is pressed on only one side. This constant, asymmetric pressure gradually damages its outer sheath (the annulus fibrosus).
3. Increased pressure and herniation
Over time, the sustained pressure on the disc becomes too much. The outer annulus fibrosus cannot withstand and tears. The inner, jelly-like part of the disc leaks or bulges out, which is called a herniation. A herniated disc presses on nearby nerve roots or the spinal cord, causing pain, numbness, and weakness.
How does physical therapy treat a herniated disc?
Our approach is focused on the contributing factors – muscle imbalance.
1. Remove the pressure on the disc
Through manual and instrumental techniques we identify and work on tight and sore muscles. The goal is to reduce the tension and release the pressure on the spine that is causing the disc to bulge.
2. Strengthening of stabilizing muscles
After the tension is removed, we move on to recovery exercises of muscles that have become ineffective. This restores the proper supporting function of the spine and prevents re-injury.
3. Achieving long-term balance
Restoring muscle balance leads to even weight distribution, which relieves the disc and helps reduce excessive load on the disc. In this way, longer-lasting relief is possible.
