What areas do C6/C7 affect?

The C6-C7 disc is 6th cervical disc near the lower part of the neck, near the top of the shoulders. The nerve root that would be affected by the C6-C7 disc herniation controls the arms, the shoulders, the heart, the lungs, and more.

How long does it take for C6 and C7 to heal?

Usually, you will be able to return to your normal activities within three to six months. Neck fusion surgery recovery varies depending on how quickly the bone graft is able to fuse.

How do you sleep with a herniated C6 C7?

How to sleep with cervical radiculopathy

1. Sleeping on your back: This is the optimal sleeping position as it is the easiest to properly brace your head and position your neck.
2. Sleeping on your side: This position is not as preferred as laying on your back, but it is better than on your stomach.

Is disc herniation an emergency?

of the time a herniated disc in the cervical spine is not an emergency, it is very painful but it is not an emergency. But sometimes it can be critical and it can present itself with a situation where you have to go to the emergency room and get emergent treatment.

What helps pain from C6 and C7?

Both over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medications are used to treat pain stemming from C6-C7. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), opioids, tramadol, and/or corticosteroids are a few examples of pain-relieving medications that may be used.

How do you fix a C6/C7 herniated disc?

Most cases of cervical herniated disc pain can be successfully managed with nonsurgical treatments, such as over-the-counter pain medications, physical therapy to strengthen and stretch the neck, ice or heat packs, and/or activity modifications to avoid painful movements until the pain has subsided.

How serious is a herniated disc in the neck?

In some patients, a cervical herniated disc can cause spinal cord compression, where disc material pushes on the spinal cord. This is a much more serious condition and may require a more aggressive treatment plan. Spinal cord compression symptoms include: Awkward or stumbling gait.

Is a herniated disc in neck serious?

How bad can a herniated disc get?

An untreated, severe slipped disc can lead to permanent nerve damage. In very rare cases, a slipped disc can cut off nerve impulses to the cauda equina nerves in your lower back and legs. If this occurs, you may lose bowel or bladder control. Another long-term complication is known as saddle anesthesia.

How do you fix a pinched nerve C7?

Other pinched nerve treatments

1. rest.
2. soft cervical collar.
3. hot or cold compress.
4. practicing good posture.
5. nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
6. acupuncture.
7. massage.
8. yoga.

What causes narrowing of C6 and C7?

Spondylosis. Spondylosis or chronic degeneration of the vertebrae, disc, and other structures in the spine is common at the C6-C7 level. Spondylosis may result in stenosis or the narrowing of the intervertebral foramina or spinal canal due to the formation of bone spurs (osteophytes).

Where is C6 and C7 located?

The C6 and C7 vertebrae are the lowest levels of the cervical spine, near the base of the neck. Injuries to the spinal cord corresponding to these regions of the spine have the potential to impact everything below the top of the ribcage resulting in quadriplegia.

What can pain C4/C5 herniated disc cause?

C4 C5 Bulging Disc. Symptoms such as pain, burning, weakness, or numbness in the shoulder, arm or hand, blurred vision, headaches, ringing in the ears, chest pain, difficulty breathing, etc. The cause of a C4 C5 bulging disc is different for everyone, but in general, the most common cause is some type of injury or trauma .

What is C6 spine?

The C6 vertebra is the sixth cervical vertebra of the spine. It is found in the base of the neck between the C5 and the last cervical vertebra, C7. The C6 vertebra plays an important role in supporting and protecting the structures of the head and neck as well as anchoring the muscles that move and support the neck.