Do you frequently slouch over your phone or computer? Do you frequently transport heavy bags? If so, cervical disc disease may be a possibility for you. Pain, stiffness, and numbness in the neck, arms, and shoulders are just a few of the symptoms that can result from this disorder, which affects the spinal discs in the neck region. While some causes of cervical disc disease Roswell, such as aging and genetics, are beyond your control, several surprising factors can increase your risk.
Here are some of the factors that can increase your risk of cervical disc disease:
- Poor posture: If you spend much time slumped over your phone or seated in front of a computer, you may place too much pressure on your neck’s spinal discs. This can eventually result in cervical disc disease and wear and strain.
- Carrying heavy backpacks: If you routinely carry a heavy backpack or pocketbook, such as a student, you may be at risk for cervical disc disease. An unequal weight distribution from carrying a big load on one shoulder can strain the neck and spine.
- Repetitive motions: If your profession or pastime, like painting or playing an instrument, requires a lot of such motions, you may be at risk for cervical disc disease. Over time, these kinds of activities can strain the neck and spine, which can cause the spinal discs to degenerate.
- Smoking: It is well known that smoking increases the risk of developing several diseases, including cervical disc disease. Smoking can cause the spinal discs to receive less blood, which can hasten their deterioration.
- Lack of exercise: Your chance of developing cervical disc disease may increase if you lead a sedentary lifestyle and get little to no exercise. Exercise strengthens the neck and spine muscles, which can stop the degeneration of the spine’s discs.
You might be curious about your treatment choices if you have been told that you have cervical disc disease. The good news is that you may manage your symptoms and enhance your quality of life with efficient treatments. Some of the available options are as follows:
- Physical therapy: Your doctor may refer you to a physical therapist who can work with you to develop a customized exercise program. These exercises can help strengthen your neck and back muscles, improve your posture, and reduce pain and stiffness.
- Medications: Depending on the severity of your symptoms, your doctor may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, or prescription medications, such as muscle relaxants or anti-inflammatory drugs.
- Corticosteroid injections: Sometimes, your doctor may recommend a corticosteroid injection to help reduce inflammation and relieve pain. This is usually done outpatient and involves injecting medication directly into the affected spinal area.
- Surgery: If other treatments have not effectively relieved your symptoms, your doctor may recommend surgery. Cervical disc disease can be managed surgically using various techniques, such as discectomy, spinal fusion, and artificial disc replacement.
It is advised to visit Apex Spine and Neurosurgery and consult with your doctor if you or someone you know exhibits symptoms of cervical disc disease.
