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The most common source of neck pain is cervical disc disease. One in every three will experience some form of neck pain at some point in their life. However, cervical disc disease is more than just waking up with a stiff neck. It is important to know the signs and symptoms of cervical disc disease and how neck pain management in Minneapolis, MN, can help. What is Cervical Disc Disease? Cervical disc disease is a degenerative disease of the disc in your neck. There are seven vertebrae that make up the cervical spine, each one with a gel-like disc in between to cushion movement. Over time, these cushions wear out and start to degenerate causing the space between the vertebrae to narrow. This is how nerves become pinched or compressed. Neck pain and a stiff neck are obvious signs that something is wrong and if left untreated, degeneration can cause serious problems. If you experience tightness, numbness, or trouble moving your shoulders, arms, and hands, you should consult your physician. Treatments for Cervical Disc Disease If detected early, cervical disc disease can be treated without surgery. Standard over-the-counter anti-inflammatories work to ease pain and swelling. Steroids and narcotic painkillers are usually prescribed in severe cases. Physical therapy is the first line of defense where a trained physician massages and manipulates the muscles and joints in your neck to alleviate pain and correct posture. They will usually suggest exercises that you can practice at home between sessions to strengthen your muscles and to ease tension. Discectomy is an elective surgery for worst case scenarios. The surgeon will remove the cervical disc and replace it with an artificial one. Sometimes they will create a fusion between the vertebrae to reinforce spacing and secure the new disc. For more information on neck pain management in Minneapolis, MN, consult your local physician.
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