Understanding when to consider a cervical disc replacement is vital for individuals suffering from severe neck pain and associated symptoms. Dr. Tim Johans, a leading neurosurgeon in Boise, strives to educate his patients on recognizing the signs that may indicate the need for this advanced surgical treatment.
This blog strives to shed light on the symptoms of a damaged cervical disc, how arm and shoulder pain, numbness, weakness, or tingling can signify a deeper issue, and when it's time to consult a medical professional like Dr. Johans about the possibility of electing for cervical disc replacement.
Dr. Johans is a Diplomat and Fellow of the American Board of Neurological Surgeons, board certified in Pain Management and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and the American Board of Neurological Surgeons. He began his neurosurgical career in 1988 and has been practicing in Boise since 1993. With these credentials, you can trust that Dr. Johans has the specialized knowledge and experience to provide you with an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan.
He is a dedicated family man who is heavily involved in his community, is involved in several hospital boards and committees and takes pride in being a faith-driven person. Dr. Johans has had a 3 level neck fusion and can discuss options from his vast personal experience.
We also work closely with other non-surgeons if necessary so that our patients can access all available resources when making decisions regarding their treatment plans. Additionally, our team is always prompt in responding to inquiries and addressing patients' concerns throughout their recovery process. Reviews on Google and Healthgrades show that many individuals who have sought treatment from Dr. Johans have found success in his treatments while feeling comfortable and supported throughout their experiences at our office.
What are The Symptoms of a Damaged Cervical Disc?
Initially, the symptoms of a damaged cervical disc include neck pain, headache, and, later, shoulder blade pain. Then, arm pain, tingling, numbness, and weakness are present if the herniated disc is bad enough to damage the nerve.
Othersymptoms of a damaged cervical disc herniation that is damaging a nerve root are numbness or tingling sensations in the arms, hands, or fingers and weakness of arm and hand muscles, which indicate nerve compression. Many individuals experience a continuous, debilitating arm pain that may present as a dull ache or a sharp, severe pain, to rigidity or discomfort in the shoulder, particularly after periods of inactivity like waking up in the morning. Neck pain might accompany these symptoms, but since it could be caused by other health issues, patients should not rely exclusively on disc replacement to correct the issue.
This condition can significantly impact one's ability to perform routine tasks, such as driving or working at a computer, decreasing quality of life.
What To Do If You Have Numbness
Is Arm and Shoulder Pain, Numbness, Weakness, or Tingling a Sign of Needing Cervical Disc Replacement?
Sharp, radiating pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness that travels from the shoulders down into the arms and fingers often suggests nerve compression, typically due to a herniated or degenerated disc and the need to have an evaluation by Dr. Johans immediately. This type of disc-related pain is persistent and may worsen over time or become permanent, indicating that conservative treatments like physical therapy, chiropractic care, or medication are no longer effective at managing the condition.
In such cases, Dr. Johans explains that these symptoms could point to a more serious condition that might be effectively addressed with cervical disc replacement surgery.
What is a Herniated Disc
When Should I Consult a Doctor About Cervical Disc Replacement?
Isolated neck pain does not indicate disc or nerve damage alone and should be explored with your general physician. See Dr. Johans immediately if you are experiencing numbness, weakness, or tingling in your shoulders, arms, or hands. Dr. Johans and his staff will aim to schedule your first appointment as quickly as possible. It's important to see Dr. Johans if you are experiencing these severe symptoms to prevent further loss of sensation or functionality. Nerve damage, if severe enough, cannot be reversed.
Dr. Johans stresses the importance of early diagnosis in enhancing treatment success, urging individuals to promptly address their symptoms by consulting a healthcare professional. Consulting with him early on can notably increase the success rate of cervical disc replacement surgery for arm pain.
Cervical disc replacement offers a promising solution for those struggling with symptoms indicative of a damaged cervical disc. Dr. Johans' expertise in this area ensures that patients receive comprehensive care, from diagnosis to postoperative recovery, guiding them towards a pain-free and more active lifestyle, even if that means not suggesting surgery at the moment.
What to Look For in a Spine Surgeon
Contact Dr. Johans for Disc Replacement in Boise
If cervical disc replacement is a procedure you're considering, Dr. Johans here to guide you every step of the way. His commitment is to provide personalized care that aligns with your lifestyle and health objectives.
Reach out directly at (208) 327-5621 or initiate your journey to recovery by completing our patient questionnaire. Together, well explore the best treatment options tailored just for you.
Patient Questionnaire