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Cervical Disc


 

Most people think of the spine as being a single unit that works together but in reality, there are a lot of smaller components that come together to allow the spine to move as it does. In the spine, there are a series of vertebrae, which are small bones that house and protect the spinal cord. The vertebrae do not sit directly on each other, as that would cause problems with pain and other issues. They are separated by small spongy like material, known as the intervertebral discs. In the entire spine, there are 23 of those discs and they allow for the free movement of the vertebrae.

The spine is also split into separate areas. The lower spine is known as the lumbar spine and the middle spine is the thoracic spine. The neck is another area and it is the cervical spine. It is one of the more delicate parts of the spine and it open to a number of different issues when we don’t treat it properly or if we are injured. The cervical discs are especially prone to problems and there are many issues we may experience when we have those difficulties.

Each of the cervical discs is made up of 2 different parts, the outer layer, and the inner layer. The outer layer is made up of collagen fibers and it is there to protect the inner layer. The inner core, known as the nucleus polypous, is gel-like and provides the shock absorbing function that we all use on a day to day basis.

Unfortunately, the cervical disc is prone to a number of problems, including some associated with the aging process. As we age, the cervical discs tend to dry out and stiffen, so they are not able to handle the compression they experience as we move about. Eventually, the inner core may begin to protrude through the outer layer and when it does, it could put pressure on a nearby nerve or the spinal cord.

In addition to the deterioration from old age, we also have problems with damage occurring as a result of accidents or not using our spine properly. Those issues could also cause problems with nerve pain and other problems in the area as well. Some of those other symptoms may include numbness, pain, tingling and weakness in the arms and hands.

When a cervical disc is damaged, it is not able to heal itself. It is then necessary to contact a medical professional to get a proper diagnosis and to get the treatment that will help you to be better. In the area of PlanoAllen and other, nearby cities, you can contact Dr. Dickerman, a spine surgeon. In fact, people come from all across the country to use his services. A call to his office will get things going and from that point, he will look into your problem and provide some solutions that may be able to help. It’s the first step to feeling better again.

Location

Neuro Texas
5575 Frisco Square Blvd, Suite 110
Frisco, TX 75034
Phone: 785-428-0924
Fax: 972-378-6925

Office Hours

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785-428-0924