Neck pain from a herniated disc is particularly annoying. This is not only because we use the neck a lot, this is also because the symptoms with a herniated disc are often not just localized.
Because there are a variety of nerves running around the vertebrae, various disruptions can occur. Because nerves in the neck also run to the arms and shoulders, therefore complaints can also occur here. A herniated disc at the C5 or C6, therefore, can not only cause symptoms in the neck itself but also cause pain and disturbances elsewhere in the body.
What exactly is going on with a herniated disc?
With a herniated disc, there is an entrapment of a nerve. This happens through an intervertebral disc. An intervertebral disc is a flexible disc that sits between the vertebrae. The intervertebral disc can absorb pressure and shock so that the vertebrae are not irritated or damaged.
For this purpose, the intervertebral disc has a soft core that is very elastic. However, when the intervertebral disc is damaged, the contents may bulge. The contents can then press on a nerve, causing it to become pinched. As a result, a variety of symptoms develop, as the function of the nerve is disrupted. Because nerves from the spinal cord run throughout the body, symptoms can also occur anywhere. It depends on the area where the nerve runs to, what the symptoms are and where they are felt.
What are the specific symptoms of a C5 or C6 herniated disc?
The C5 and C6 vertebrae, are the lower cervical vertebrae. Nerves exiting around these vertebrae run to various structures around the diaphragm, throat and shoulder/arms. Nerves exiting around these vertebrae run to various structures around the diaphragm, throat and shoulder/arms.
So you may notice that breathing is uncomfortable because the respiratory muscles are not properly controlled. Similarly, it can cause sore throats, coughs and upset stomachs. Because the stomach is also controlled in part by nerves from this region.
Pain, numbness and tingling of the shoulder and (upper) arm are also common because the arms are largely controlled by nerves exiting around the C5/C6. Symptoms can be diverse and varied, both in intensity and capacity.
If there are mild subluxations, then the symptoms may not be too bad. When the disturbances get worse, the symptoms can have a major impact on daily life. In these cases, it is advisable to consult a specialist such as a chiropractor.
What can a chiropractor do for herniated discomfort around C5 C6
A chiropractor is a specialist in everything to do with the spine and spinal cord for a reason. Therefore, there are several options available to a chiropractor. Which ones are applied depends entirely on the cause of the symptoms.
The chiropractor will use manipulations in all cases, to work directly on the balance of the vertebrae. By balancing the vertebrae, the pressure on the vertebrae decreases, allowing the entire region to relax.
If there is abnormal muscle tension, incorrect posture or intoxications affecting the herniated disc, the next step is to take care of it. By working on healthy posture and proper muscle tone, we can ensure that the pressure on the vertebrae and intervertebrae decreases even further. By then addressing the factors that caused the situation, we ensure that the symptoms do not return either.
Welcome to TOPCHIRO
Our practice is entirely focused on promoting health. We do this not only by taking care of complaints, but also by helping to prevent them. Because we don’t just want you to be symptom-free, we want you to be the healthiest version of yourself.
We do this through various chiropractic techniques. We would love to tell you more about this so feel free to contact us. We are here for you!