The many technological conveniences associated with life in 2017 leave you at greater risk for Cervical Disc Herniation. Often referred to as “text neck”, the condition brought on by near constant peering at a screen can end up being a literal pain in your neck. When you maintain strained neck positioning for too long, it can result in cervical disc herniation. Improving your posture can help, and an experienced chiropractor can help you find that postural happy place that silences your herniated disc pain.

Your Neck and Cervical Disc Herniation 

The part of your spine that reaches your neck – your cervical vertebrae – should naturally curve forward into a slight C shape. This curve in your spine is there to act as a shock-absorbing spring to protect your brain against sudden movement and possible shock. Between your vertebrae lie intervertebral discs, which help keep your spine flexible and fluid. Consistently engaging in poor posture can cause these discs to herniate or bulge and, thus, to move away from their proper spine-protective positioning.  

When you keep your neck cast down (as when you interface with your phone) or cast forward (as when you interface with your computer) for extended periods, your spine can lose its natural healthy-curve. When you repeatedly engage in such activities, your posture probably suffers. Additionally, you may find that you experience more and more neck and shoulder fatigue and pain. Chiropractic care can help your find your way back to your healthy posture and will provide you with lifestyle tweaks that allow you to ditch your text neck.  

Handy Hints 

There are things that you can do to care for and alleviate the pain associated with cervical disc herniation: 

• Recognize that the symptoms can include muscle weakness, loss of neck mobility, and/or acute neck pain (you may also experience numbness, tingling, or sharp pain that can radiate down your neck and into your shoulder, arm, and hand);
• Apply ice to your neck as soon as you experience neck pain;
• Alternate your ice therapy with moist heat therapy (try using a warm, wet towel);
• Take a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), such as Ibuprofen, to reduce the swelling (do not exceed 2,400 mg per day);
• Give your neck a rest by limiting movement and taking a few daily catnaps; and
• Visit an experienced chiropractor.

If You’re Suffering from Cervical Disc Herniation, Contact a Tampa Bay Chiropractor Today

If technology’s wonders have caused a pain in your neck, do not hesitate to contact Tampa Bay Spine & Injury for an appointment today. As pain specialists, our multidisciplinary team provides truly integrated physical medicine, and we will work with you to effectively address your herniated disc. Chiropractic care is an effective tool for maintaining a healthy, pain-free spine. We have two conveniently located offices in Brandon (813-381-3852) and St. Petersburg (727-898-3852), so please give us a call if you’re ready to take on that pain in your neck.

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