Neck pain is a common complaint and problem in the society, but it would not be right to evaluate every neck pain as a neck hernia. The reason for the degenerative changes occurring in the cervical disc spine is that the disc part extends towards the spinal canal and puts pressure on the nerve root.

HOW TO DETERMINE THE NECK HERNIA?

The most common complaints caused by cervical disc hernia; Pain, numbness, tingling extending to the shoulder, arm and hands, pain extending towards both shoulder blades, loss of strength in the arms.

In advanced cases, balance problems, weakness in the legs, inability to control bladder can also occur.Patients with such complaints are recommended to consult a spinal surgeon. After detailed examination a correct diagnosis can be made by neck X-Ray, MRI, computed tomography. Electro diagnostic (EMG) examinations can also help with the diagnosis.

TREATMENT OPTIONS IN NECK HERNIA

Surgical treatment is not required for every cervical disc hernia. Even if degenerative changes are seen in the neck in the MRI examination, most of them can be treated without surgery.Non-surgical treatment;

• Pain relievers and muscle relaxants
• physiotheraphy
• massage therapy
• it includes regulations in everyday life.

When is surgery required?

Complaints that cannot be cured despite non-surgical treatment, weakness in arm and / or hand muscles, balance problems, weakness in leg muscles, urination, inadequate bladder control.

The surgery can be performed with the neck or back of the neck approach. Both approaches may be needed in severe cases. The aim of surgical treatment is to remove the pressure on the nerve roots and to prevent the recurrence of hernia at the same level.

Decompression usually made from the back of the neck, the herniated part is removed from the bones.Anterior discectomy (approach from the anterior part of the neck) and fusion; It is made with a neck approach. It is the most preferred surgical technique. The entire disc is removed and a cage is placed in the middle to fuse the vertebrae.

Although it can be seen in all age groups, it is most common between the ages of 20-50. In patients with advanced age, other findings of spinal degeneration may accompany the disc degeneration, which starts with lower back pain first. Later, pain that hits the legs can be added to the lower back pain. This situation is generally called SCIATIC.

HOW IS LOWER BACK HERNIA DIAGNOSED?

If the above mentioned complaints are present, it is recommended to consult a spine surgeon. Lumbar MRI has a very important place in the diagnosis of herniated disc. However, it is required in normal and moving x-rays. The cases where the MRI is not possible, computed tomography may be helpful in diagnosis.

WHAT ARE THE TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR LOWER BACK HERNIA?

Complaints of patients with herniated disc can be relieved with rest, pain relief muscle relaxants and physical therapy. Some injections can be applied to relieve the pain. However, they are not recommended to be done too often as they may have side effects.

WHEN IS THE SURGERY REQUIRED?

• In case of persistent pain despite the above treatments
• When there is weakness in the leg muscles
• Inadequate urine and toilet control
• Inability to walk on toes and / or heels

Surgical treatment of lumbar hernia can usually be done with a very small incision with micro surgery or endoscopic techniques. Rarely, it may be necessary to use an instrument in lumbar hernia surgery. It is important to have a detailed discussion with the spine surgeon about which technique is appropriate for you.