musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders
Cervical Herniated Nucleus Pulposus
Key Points
Cervical herniated disks are common and usually affect nerve roots at C6 and C7. If symptoms develop suddenly and neck pain is relieved with rest, suspect a herniated disk rather than an epidural tumor or abscess. Recommend analgesics, light activity as tolerated, and exercises to improve posture and strength; however, if pain or deficits are severe or worsening, consider invasive procedures. 