Bulging Disc In Neck Symptoms
Before we discuss the symptoms commonly associated with a bulging disc in neck it’s important to understand the anatomy of the spine. Your spinal cord is made up of bones which are called vetebrae, and in between each vertebrae rests a small circular shaped disc that acts as a cushion to absorb shock. Without these discs you would have bone grinding against bone which would be very uncomfortable. These discs are made up of a hard outer layer and a nucleus that consists of a soft jelly like substance.
A bulging disc is a disc which has been injured and is bulging out of its normal position placing pressure onto nerve roots. This can happen for a variety of reasons such as age, injury, and muscle inactivity. A bulging disc is a disc which has not had its outer wall torn open completely but is simply bulging outward. In some cases the outer wall of a disc can tear open creating a herniated disc which would create more problems and be more painful. The primary reason this type of injury causes pain is due to the pressure being placed onto the nerve roots by the protruding disc.
Symptoms
A bulging disc in the neck would cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the neck, shoulders, arms, chest and hands. The pain and weakness will extend down your extremities due to the pressure being placed onto the nerves.
In the beginning the pain may be minimal but over time it will get worse over time or after/during certain activities such as:
- Standing up or sitting down
- In the evening
- After a sneeze or cough
- Laughing
- Bending in unusual ways or being on your feet for prolonged periods
You may feel weakness in certain areas of your body such as your hands and it may come on suddenly. In some cases patients could lose the strength to hold a simple glass of water or squeeze their hand tight.
These symptoms could come and go over a period of months which may fool you into believing they have subsided only to return. If you believe you are suffering from a bulging disc it would be best to speak with your doctor for a proper diagnosis.
In the event that you decide to visit a doctor they would check for some of the following:
- Any numbness in the neck or surrounding areas
- Muscle reflexes which may be slow or unresponsive
- Muscle strength
- The curve of your spine and posture
You may also be asked to perform the following:
- Sit, stand, walk. The doctor may ask you walk in different ways as well
- Bend your back
- Bend and move your neck
- Demonstrate your strength
If you believe your are suffering from a bulging disc then you should get plenty of rest and avoid doing anything that could potentially aggravate the injury further. Rest is the best remedy in most cases.
