A cervical disc protrusion happens when one of the discs in your neck (the cervical spine) bulges or slips out of its normal position. These discs act like soft cushions between the bones in your neck, helping your spine move smoothly. When a disc in your neck protrudes, it can press on nearby nerves, which can cause pain and other symptoms.

Symptoms of cervical disc protrusion can include:

• Neck pain: You may feel pain or stiffness in your neck, especially when moving it.
• Arm or shoulder pain: The pain can travel from your neck down to your shoulder, arm, and/or hand.
• Numbness or tingling: You might feel a “pins and needles” sensation in your arm, hand, or fingers.
• Weakness: Strength of your arm or hand may be reduced.

Causes:

This condition is often caused by aging, as the discs naturally lose some of their flexibility and can start to wear down or get damaged over time. It can also happen due to an injury or heavy lifting.

Treatment:

Treatment for cervical disc protrusion depends on the severity of the symptoms and may include:

• Physical therapy: Exercises to improve neck strength and flexibility.
• Pain medications: To reduce pain and inflammation.
• Rest: Taking breaks and avoiding movements that make the pain worse.
• Injections: a CT guided injection of steroid (with local anaesthetic) may relieve the pain temporarily or permanently.
• In more severe cases, surgery might be needed if the pain or nerve pressure is not improving with other treatments.

Most people with cervical disc protrusion can manage their symptoms and return to normal activities with the right treatment.