The cervical vertebrae are exposed to constant stress because they are very mobile.
There are 7 vertebrae in the neck and 5 discs between the vertebrae. There is no disc between the first and second vertebra
.
Neck pain is one of the most common problems and its prevalence in the society in general is 20-30%. One in every three people suffers from neck pain at least once in their lifetime. It is important to distinguish between neck pain seen in the midline (axial neck pain) and pain originating from the neck reflected in the arm. Axial neck pain
It is pain that can extend up to the upper part of the skull and the area between the shoulder blades
and is located in the midline or just at the edge of the midline.
Pain originating from the neck and radiating to the arm. It is defined as pain affecting the shoulder girdle and below
and appearing in the arm. Both types of pain result from injury to the cervical vertebrae
. The mechanism and treatment of each of these injuries are different. Although it is more common in people who have a job that involves lifting heavy objects, the risk is also high in those who constantly work at a desk and are sedentary. Low level of education and depression
increase the frequency of neck pain.
In addition to the complaint of the patient with neck pain, his/her age, education level, profession, social
condition and diseases he/she has experienced also occur. It is important. The location of the pain, its spread, factors that cause pain, positions and activities that increase or decrease pain are important in making a diagnosis. Most causes of neck pain are related to the musculoskeletal system. The frequency of these
reasons varies in every age group.
One of the most common causes of neck pain is cervical disc herniation. Cervical herniation is most commonly seen between c5-
c6 (5th and 6th cervical vertebrae) and second most frequently between c6-c7
. Because this level of the spine is the most mobile part and therefore
discs at these levels are frequently affected. Cervical herniation is the protrusion of the disc nuclei located between the vertebrae by tearing the membrane called annulus fibrosus surrounding it
.
The patient has complaints such as pain, decreased strength, numbness and tingling in the neck and arms
The patient's history and physical examination are important in the diagnosis of cervical disc herniation. Increasing complaints with coughing,
sneezing and straining suggest that the hernia is advanced
. Definitive diagnosis is made by MRI.
The first step in treatment is to relieve pain with patient education, activity modification, painkillers and muscle relaxants
drugs. Repetitive heavy lifting
should be avoided. Heat therapy is frequently used to relieve pain and provide muscle relaxation. Superficial heat application can be made for up to 30 minutes twice a day. Device physical therapy is recommended for 14-20 sessions. Neck collar
makes it easier for the patient to feel comfortable in the early period. The use of a neck collar should be limited
. Use for longer than 3 days causes weakness in neck muscles
. Manual therapy can be applied in physical therapy. Pushing, stretching and pulling movements are made to the neck area with the hands. Manual therapy sessions vary between 3-8
. Manual therapy is a treatment performed with hands and has nothing to do with massage. Although it is a frequently used treatment in America and most European countries, the number of doctors performing it in Turkey is limited to 20-25 people. Manual
treatment is a treatment that should only be performed by doctors.
Strengthening the muscles around the cervical spine, reducing pain, maximizing functions and preventing the progression and recurrence of the hernia. It is very
important. Restoring spine flexibility and posture training are essential.
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