Cervical Disc Herniation
Specialist evaluation for neck pain that radiates into the shoulder, arm, or hand — often with numbness, tingling, or weakness.
A cervical disc herniation occurs when the soft inner material of a disc in the neck pushes through its outer ring and presses on a nearby nerve root or the spinal cord itself. Most cases respond to conservative care, but a focused neurosurgical assessment is the right next step when symptoms persist or weakness develops.
Dr. Zuhair Abu Salma evaluates cervical disc herniations with a structured review of the symptoms, a careful neurological exam, and MRI imaging when indicated. The goal is to match the treatment to the specific pattern — not to jump to surgery before it is needed.
Common symptoms
- Neck pain that spreads to one shoulder, scapula, or arm
- Tingling or numbness in specific fingers
- Weakness in the arm or hand (grip, lifting)
- Pain that worsens with neck movement or prolonged postures
When to see a doctor
- Arm or hand weakness that develops or worsens over days to weeks
- Numbness that does not resolve with rest
- Difficulty walking, loss of fine hand control, or changes in bladder/bowel function
- Pain that disrupts sleep or has not improved after several weeks of conservative care
What to expect at your visit
- A detailed discussion of the symptom pattern and a focused neurological exam
- MRI review (or a clear recommendation for imaging if you do not yet have one)
- A clear plan: continued conservative care, a targeted injection, or surgical options
- Time to ask questions — no rushed decisions
Related reading & care
Care at the clinic
Spine Surgeries
Spinal procedures for disc herniation, stenosis, spinal cord tumors, deformity, fractures, and chronic spine pain.
Learn moreIn-depth articles
Thoracic Disc Herniation: Why Some Cases Need Specialized Planning
Thoracic disc problems are less common than lumbar or cervical disc disease, and surgical decisions require careful evaluation because of the spinal cord’s location.
Read articleIn-depth articles
Thoracic Disc Surgery: Why a Modern Lateral Approach and a Team Matter
Thoracic disc herniation is uncommon and challenging. A careful approach — including chest and neurosurgical teams — reduces risk to the spinal cord.
Read articleIn-depth articles
When Back Pain Isn’t Just a Disc: Other Spinal Sources Worth Looking For
Imaging that shows only a small disc bulge can be reassuring — but if the pain is severe, the real cause may be a different part of the spine entirely.
Read articleReal patient stories
Young Patients with Cervical Pathology
Read caseBook your consultation
Book an appointment with Dr. Zuhair Abu Salma at Vetro Medical Center, Al-Khalidi Street, Amman.