People sometimes say they have a herniated disc in the neck as a way of describing any discomfort they experience in or around the cervical (upper) region of the spine. However, to ensure that you start the proper treatments for your pain, it's important to know the difference between an actual cervical herniated disc and a cervical muscle strain. Although the two conditions may produce some similar symptoms, a herniated disc usually is more serious, and will require a more structured treatment plan as well as the advisement of a medical professional.
Disc Pain vs. Muscle Pain
A herniated disc in the neck occurs when a tear develops in the outer wall (annulus fibrosus) of an intervertebral disc located in between any of the first seven cervical vertebrae. These discs are fibrous, spongy pads that separate adjacent vertebrae, absorb shock, and help facilitate movement. While annular tears can develop due to sudden injury, they most often occur over time as a result of degeneration that accompanies the aging process. Local pain in the neck or upper back may result from nerve fibers in the annular wall becoming irritated, though most patients report feeling radiculopathic pain, which occurs when the inner disc fluid (nucleus pulposus) leaks through the tear and comes in contact with nearby spinal nerves.
A muscle strain, on the other hand, is almost always due to sudden injury or overexertion. It involves the overstretching or tearing of muscle fibers and possibly the tendons attached to the muscle.
So how can you tell the difference between a herniated disc in the neck and muscle pain? Pay attention to your symptoms. A herniated disc in the neck will likely produce symptoms of pain, tingling, numbness, or muscle weakness that feel as if they are radiating throughout your neck, shoulders, arms, hands, or fingers. The discomfort of a herniated disc may come in spurts, but will generally last longer (usually several weeks or months) than the pain of a strained muscle. A strained muscle will cause local pain, aching, stiffness, or throbbing, but will generally not produce radicular tingling or pins-and-needles sensations. While the pain of a strained muscle can be constant, the muscle fibers will generally heal themselves over a period of several days or weeks with proper treatments.
Do I Need to Get a Diagnosis from a Doctor?
If you are experiencing neck pain that has lasted for longer than a week, you should make an appointment to see your doctor. He or she can review your medical history, perform a physical exam, and evaluate your symptoms to determine if a muscle strain or herniated disc is at fault. In some cases, medical imaging - an X-ray, MRI, or CT scan - may be required in order to confirm the diagnosis.
Once the diagnosis has been confirmed, you and your doctor can work together to devise a treatment plan. Some of the same treatment methods might be prescribed for a herniated disc as for a muscle strain. These might include periods of rest, over-the-counter or prescription analgesics or anti-inflammatories, and hot/cold compresses. Of course, a symptomatic herniated disc will likely require additional treatment, which is why it is so important to get the diagnosis correct.
