The vertebrae in the neck carry a high payload and are susceptible to strain and degenerative disease over time. When the cervical vertebrae, the first seven neck vertebrae described as C1-C7, become weak, the outer coverings of the discs can lose their elasticity. Pressure can cause the disc to bulge outside of the normal margins when this covering is weakened, possibly rupturing. This is referred to as a cervical bulging disc and can cause nerve and spinal pain. Dr. Bhatti at Atlanta Spine can offer effective treatments for those suffering from this degenerative spine condition.

Symptoms and Causes of Bulging Discs

Typically, a cervical bulging disc is not painful unless it begins interfering with the surrounding nerves and spinal cord. When the disc puts pressure on these areas, numbness, tingling, pain, loss of motor skills and weakness can all be attributed to the bulging disc. When the disc presses on the nearby nerves, the symptoms are usually felt in the neck, shoulders, arms and hands. When the pressure in on the spinal cord, the pain and lack of mobility is felt in the pelvic and leg region, often resulting in weakness and heaviness when walking.

To determine if a cervical bulging disc is the root of your pain or symptoms, schedule an appointment with Dr. Bhatti. If you are diagnosed with this condition, Dr. Bhatti can offer options for treatment. In many cases, physical therapy, injections, medications and other non-surgical treatments can be used to relieve the pressure and reduce symptoms. In severe cases where non-surgical treatments do not relieve the pressure on the spine or nerve root, surgery may be recommended.

If you are experiencing pain or lack of motor skills that may be caused by a cervical bulging disc, contact us today to make your appointment at Atlanta Spine. Dr. Bhatti and his team can determine the cause and recommend treatment to improve your well-being.