Replacing a disc in the neck can alleviate neck pain that is stopping patients from performing everyday activities. Our spine is stacked with two components: vertebrae (bone) and discs. Discs act as shock absorbers, allowing your spine and neck to bend, flex, and rotate. Let’s look further into cervical disc pain and replacement.
Pain can include:
- Severe neck pain
- Numbness and tingling in one or both arms
- Shooting pain in the arm
- Weakness of the arm
Management
Patients often undergo a trial period of non-surgical care which is often successful. This six-week trial of non-surgical care will determine if the patient is a candidate for cervical disc replacement.
Six-week non-surgical trial includes:
- Rest
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Physical therapy with traction on the neck
- Epidural steroid injections
If this six-week trial is unsuccessful, the patient will become a candidate for cervical disc replacement surgery.
The ideal patient:
- Patient who has suffered injury to cervical disc
- Failed non-surgical care
- Would like to avoid a fusion surgery
What’s next after surgery?
Recovery:
- Can be performed as same-day operation for select patients
- Some patients will have a one-night stay in the hospital
- First two months, patients are not allowed to lift anything heavier than 20-25 pounds
- No collar is needed
- After 2-month 20-25 weight restriction, there are no longer any restrictions
Who to call:
Dr. Jason M. Conaughty
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is time to call our spine specialist at Tri-State Orthopaedics. My expertise and training is in spine surgery and orthopaedic fracture care. I have over 17 years of practice experience, having completed thousands of spine procedures. As a surgeon, my role is to help you overcome your injury so that you can regain control of your life.