Disc Bulges in Cervical Spine

Our user asked: "I have 3 bulging discs in my cervical spine. One on the right side at the base of my neck. This particular one radiates with severe pain into my shoulder and down my right arm. A second one is lower on my spine at the top of my shoulder blade on the left side. I have already had MRI's which confirm this. However I woke up this morning with what I believe to be a third bulging disc on the right side near the location of the second disc bulge. Right now I am experiencing incredible pain and stiffness. I currently do not have insurance so I need all the help I can get. I am only 28 years old. What advice do you have to help me heal or aleviate the pain? Is there any at home therapy I can do or devices I can use to help me? Thank you."

Ask a PT Response: "Please refer to our article on bulging cervcial disc/herniated disc. http://www.cyberpt.com/cptcondtrtcervicaldiscbulge.asp. This will give you an idea as far as what to expect for physicl therapy and some sample exercises which are prescribed by physical therapists. McKenzie cervical protocol may also utilized by physical therapists: http://www.jcca-online.org/client/cca/JCCA.nsf/objects/V47-4-p291/$file/V47-4-p291.pdf . Cervical traction is another tool available to physical therapists as well. Without physically examining you, I am unable to give you specific direction for your care. Pelase remember that prior to performing any exercise/self treatment it is recommended that you seek professional and medical advise from your physician. Should you have symptoms and also begin experiencing severe weakness of the arm and hand which results in the inadvertent dropping of items, then seek medical attention immediately as this may require surgical intervention. Best of luck to you."


Edited by Ask a PT - Oct 29 2009 at 5:19pm