Cervical Disc Herniation: How Chiropractic Can Help

Cervical disc herniation — a herniated disc in the neck — is a frequent cause of neck pain combined with arm symptoms. When a cervical disc herniates, it can press on the nerve roots that exit the cervical spine and travel into the shoulder, arm, and hand. The result is a combination of neck pain, radiating arm pain, numbness, tingling, and sometimes weakness that can significantly limit daily function and work capacity.

Common Levels and Symptoms

Cervical disc herniation most commonly occurs at C5-C6 and C6-C7. Depending on which level is affected, symptoms may radiate to different parts of the arm:

• C5-C6 herniation: Pain into the shoulder and outer forearm; weakness of biceps; numbness over the thumb
• C6-C7 herniation: Pain into the triceps region and middle fingers; weakness of triceps and grip
• C4-C5 herniation: Shoulder pain and deltoid weakness without typical arm radiation

Chiropractic Treatment for Cervical Disc Herniation

The cervical spine requires a gentler, more conservative approach than the lumbar spine. Our doctors use:

• Cervical traction: Manual or mechanical traction that separates the cervical vertebrae, reducing pressure on the herniated disc and its affected nerve root
• Gentle cervical mobilization: Low-velocity movement through the cervical joints to restore mobility without high-force manipulation during the acute phase
• Soft-tissue therapy: Release of the cervical and upper thoracic musculature that goes into protective spasm following disc injury
• Therapeutic exercises: Deep cervical flexor strengthening and scapular stabilization to reduce ongoing disc stress

Most patients with cervical disc herniation improve without surgery when managed appropriately. At Total Health Family Clinic, we take a thorough, conservative approach that prioritizes your safety and long-term spinal health.