"What Are Effective Strategies for Treating Cervical Bulging?"
Cervical Disc Bulge
Cervical disc bulge, also known as cervical disc herniation, is a type of cervical spondylosis. It typically arises from long-term poor posture or trauma. This condition can significantly impact the body, particularly in severe cases. Beyond causing cervical vertebrae deformation, it can also lead to bulging, resulting in symptoms like dizziness and headache. Thus, prompt examination and treatment are crucial following the onset of cervical disc herniation, as early intervention can effectively alleviate symptoms.
1. How to Treat Cervical Disc Bulge?
Cervical disc bulge primarily refers to the protrusion of the intervertebral disc in the cervical spine. Disc bulge is the mildest form of disc herniation, involving a slight backward protrusion of the nucleus pulposus without damaging the posterior fibrous ring or posterior longitudinal ligament. It often does not cause significant symptoms and may not require specialized treatment. However, maintaining proper neck posture, avoiding prolonged static positions, regularly changing positions, refraining from excessive head bending, using suitable pillows, limiting screen time, and avoiding extended desk work are essential. Regular exercise, like badminton or swimming, can also be beneficial. If cervical disc bulge causes neck pain or neurological symptoms, anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications, intravenous mannitol injection, or sodium aescinate for dehydration and swelling reduction, along with nutritional nerve drugs, may be prescribed to reduce intraspinal pressure, alleviate nerve root swelling, and improve symptoms.
2. Is Cervical Disc Bulge Severe?
Cervical disc bulge is generally not severe and represents a relatively mild stage of cervical spondylosis, with more severe cases being classified as cervical disc herniation. The severity depends on the patient's symptoms. In asymptomatic cases, lifestyle modifications like avoiding prolonged head bending, reducing desk work, wearing a neck brace, and performing neck massages can be helpful. If neurological symptoms like hand numbness or weakness occur, intravenous mannitol or cervical traction may be recommended. A typical treatment course lasts two weeks, with each traction session lasting approximately half an hour. For severe numbness, oral administration of Mecobalamin and Jingfukang Granules may be prescribed. However, conservative treatment cannot cure the condition, and surgical intervention may be necessary for complete relief.
3. What Are the Symptoms of Cervical Disc Bulge?
Some patients with cervical disc bulge may experience symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, stiffness in the neck and shoulders, vertigo, blurred vision, hearing loss, and facial numbness. These symptoms are similar to those of cervical disc herniation but are generally less severe and may manifest as mild manifestations. Furthermore, the symptoms of cervical disc bulge in younger adults may be less pronounced compared to those in older individuals.