Is There Hope for My Herniated Neck Disc?
I’m a 37-year-old female from the UK, and I’m currently not taking any medications. My medical history includes thoracic outlet syndrome on both sides due to the presence of two additional cervical ribs. I underwent a successful rib removal on the right side two years ago, which significantly relieved my issues. Before my rib surgery, I had an MRI that indicated that three of my neck discs (C4-C5, C5-C6, and C6-C7) were in poor condition. Fast forward to November/December 2024, I awoke with unmistakable symptoms indicative of a herniated disc. A doctor examined me and confirmed, based solely on this examination without any additional scans, that my C6-C7 disc had either slipped or ruptured. I was prescribed a daily dosage of 150mg Diclofenac for two months, which provided considerable relief. I also tried some initial physical therapy, but I didn’t find it beneficial. Since then, I’ve turned to massages and heat therapy, yet I continue to suffer from persistent pain and stiffness in that area of my neck, describing it as feeling 'grindy.' An osteopath noted a twist in my upper vertebrae and made an adjustment that brought some temporary comfort. Despite consulting with various healthcare professionals, all have advised that there are no further treatments available to me at this point. Is it truly the case that I must endure these lingering symptoms indefinitely?
Answers (1)
3/23/2025, 4:00:56 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’re experiencing a challenging situation with your herniated neck disc and lingering symptoms after previous treatments. There is hope for improvement, and several options may help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Understanding Your Situation
A herniated disc can cause pain, stiffness, and other symptoms in the neck. Given your history of cervical issues and previous surgeries, it's important to consider both conservative management strategies and potential further evaluations. Based on your description, it seems that while some treatments provided temporary relief, persistent symptoms remain a concern.
Next Steps
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Physical Therapy Reassessment: Since you mentioned that initial physical therapy was not beneficial, consider seeking a therapist who specializes in neck and cervical spine issues, particularly someone with experience in herniated discs or chronic pain management. They can tailor exercises and techniques specifically for your condition.
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Pain Management Strategies: Although you have tried Diclofenac, you may explore other over-the-counter or prescription medications with your healthcare provider. Discuss the possibility of transitioning to different pain management options, such as:
- Topical pain relief creams or patches
- Muscle relaxants for muscle stiffness
- Nerve pain medications like gabapentinoids could be beneficial for some individuals.
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Alternative Therapies: In addition to osteopathy, you might find relief from other complementary therapies, such as:
- Acupuncture: Some patients report positive results with pain management through acupuncture.
- Chiropractic care: If considered appropriate for your case, this can sometimes help alleviate pain and improve mobility.
- Mindfulness and relaxation techniques: Considering therapies like yoga or meditation can aid in pain management and improve your mental well-being.
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Investigative Imaging: If symptoms persist, consider discussing the option of more advanced imaging (like an MRI) with your healthcare provider. This can help determine the current state of your discs and see if there's a need for more targeted treatment.
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Lifestyle Modifications: Focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle tailored to your condition:
- Gentle neck exercises: Stretching and strengthening exercises designed for your neck can help improve range of motion and reduce stiffness. Always perform these under guidance from a professional.
- Ergonomic adjustments: Ensure your workspace is neck-friendly, and try to maintain good posture throughout your daily activities.
- Regular movement: Incorporate short walks or gentle activity throughout your day to reduce stiffness.
Conclusion
While it may feel discouraging now, there are options you can pursue that offer potential relief. Focus on personalized physical therapy, explore new pain management strategies, and consider both alternative therapies and potential re-evaluation of your condition. Track your symptoms and be proactive in communicating with your healthcare providers about your concerns and goals moving forward. You deserve to find a path that helps you manage your symptoms effectively.
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