Bulging Disc in My Neck

A bulging disc occurs when a disc becomes misshapen in one or more places as a result of the disc being flatter than usual. This can cause spinal stenosis, a narrowing of the spinal canal, in which the nerve roots or spinal cord are compressed. Bulging discs are most common in the lumbar spine (lower back), but they can also occur in the cervical spine (neck).

Most bulging discs in any part of the spine are not a cause for major concern, and can be treated conservatively. However, any condition in the cervical spine has the potential to be more severe than conditions in the lower back. This is because the cervical spine houses the very top of the spinal cord, which contains nerves that reach the whole body, ranging from the arms to the core to the feet. Symptoms can accordingly manifest anywhere. In cases where symptoms of numbness or muscle weakness get progressively worse, immediate surgical treatment may be needed.

Symptoms & Diagnosis

The symptoms of a bulging disc in the neck are the same as the symptoms of any other form of cervical spinal stenosis. They can include:

• Pain in the neck, at the site of the bulging disc
  
• Pain in the arms or legs, in the nerves which extend from that level of the spinal cord
  
• Numbness or tingling in arms or legs
  
• Muscle weakness in the arms or legs
  

Since the symptoms mirror those of other forms of spinal stenosis, diagnostic testing will have to be performed to determine whether or not a bulging disc is the cause. In general, this will consist of using MRI or other forms of medical imaging. After diagnosis and evaluation of the symptoms, a treatment plan can be formulated.

To schedule a consultation about your neck or back pain, please click below or call the Datta Endoscopic Back Surgery and Pain Center at (646) 374-1799.