Neck Disc Herniation

A herniated disc in the neck (cervical disc herniation) can cause neck pain and pain, numbness or weakness down one arm. Like low back discs, most improve without surgery within weeks to months. Surgery such as anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) or disc replacement is for progressive weakness, spinal cord compression or pain that does not settle.

Urgent signs

• Clumsy hands, trouble with buttons or handwriting
• Unsteady walking
• Weakness getting worse in the arm

These can mean pressure on the spinal cord (myelopathy) and need prompt specialist review.

Back or leg pain for more than 6 weeks? Get the free guide and a doctor review of your scan.

Treatment without surgery

• Physiotherapy and posture work
• Short-term pain relief
• Image-guided injections
• PRP and stem cells are being studied for disc pain