Prolapsed Cervical Intervertebral Disc Between C5 – C6

A prolapsed cervical intervertebral disc between C5 and C6, often called a cervical disc herniation, occurs when the soft, gel-like center (nucleus pulposus) of the disc pushes through cracks in its tough outer ring (annulus fibrosus). Located between the fifth and sixth cervical vertebrae in the lower part of the neck, this prolapse can press on nearby nerve roots or the spinal cord, causing neck pain, arm pain, and neurological symptoms WikipediaSpine-health.

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Anatomy of the C5–C6 Intervertebral Disc

Structure and Location

The C5–C6 disc sits between the bodies of the fifth and sixth cervical vertebrae at the front of the neck. It consists of:

• Annulus fibrosus: A tough, multilayered ring of fibrocartilage that surrounds the disc.

• Nucleus pulposus: A soft, gelatinous core that absorbs shock and distributes load. WikipediaSpine-health

Origin and Insertion

The annulus fibrosus attaches firmly to the superior and inferior cartilaginous endplates of C5 and C6 vertebrae via Sharpey’s fibers. Unlike muscles, the disc itself has no origin/insertion in the traditional sense but is secured entirely by these endplate connections Wikipedia.

Blood Supply

In healthy adults, the disc is nearly avascular. Nutrients and oxygen reach the outer annulus through capillary branches of the cervical segmental arteries, while the inner nucleus depends on diffusion across the cartilaginous endplates from vertebral body vessels NCBI.

Nerve Supply

Sensory fibers enter with the sinuvertebral nerve (recurrent meningeal nerve) through the intervertebral foramina to innervate the outer third of the annulus fibrosus, ligaments, and dura. These fibers carry pain signals when the disc is damaged PhysiopediaWikipedia.

Functions

1. Shock absorption: The nucleus pulposus cushions compressive loads.

2. Load distribution: Evenly spreads forces across the vertebral endplates.

3. Flexibility: Allows controlled neck movements (flexion, extension, lateral bending, rotation).

4. Stability: Maintains spacing between C5 and C6 to protect nerve roots.

5. Height maintenance: Preserves disc height for proper foraminal dimensions.

6. Motion facilitation: Enables smooth gliding of the facet joints. Wikipedia.

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Types of C5–C6 Disc Prolapse

Disc prolapse at C5–C6 is classified based on containment and severity:

• Disc bulge: Symmetrical extension of the entire disc margin without focal protrusion.

• Disc protrusion (contained herniation): Nucleus pushes into a focal annular tear but remains within the outer annulus.

• Disc extrusion (uncontained herniation): Nucleus material breaks through the outer annulus but remains connected to the disc.

• Disc sequestration: A fragment of nucleus pulposus separates completely from the disc. Spine-healthWikipedia.

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Causes

1. Age-related degeneration: Natural wear weakens annular fibers.

2. Heavy lifting or sudden trauma: Forces can tear the annulus.

3. Repetitive microtrauma: Chronic overuse from work or sports.

4. Poor posture: Forward head position increases disc stress Spine-health.

5. Obesity: Extra weight increases load on cervical discs Verywell Health.

6. Smoking: Impairs disc nutrition and healing PMC.

7. Genetic predisposition: Family history of early disc degeneration.

8. Disc dehydration: Loss of water content with age reduces cushioning.

9. Whiplash injuries: Rapid neck flexion-extension can rupture the annulus Spine-health.

10. Occupational vibration: Prolonged exposure (e.g., heavy machinery) adds mechanical stress.

11. Congenital disc weakness: Rare structural anomalies present from birth.

12. Cervical spondylosis: Bone spur formation alters disc mechanics.

13. Facet joint osteoarthritis: Adjacent joint degeneration transfers load to the disc.

14. Spinal stenosis: Narrowing forces adjacent segments to bear more load.

15. Previous neck surgery: Alters local biomechanics and disc stresses.

16. Repetitive neck extension/flexion sports: Gymnastics, weightlifting strain C5–C6.

17. Diabetes mellitus: Microvascular changes accelerate disc degeneration PubMedScienceDirect.

18. Inflammatory arthritis: Rheumatoid conditions can weaken annular tissue.

19. Connective tissue disorders: Disorders like Ehlers–Danlos syndrome impair disc integrity.

20. Dehydration and poor hydration habits: Limits disc nutrient diffusion and height. WikipediaSpine-health.

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Symptoms

1. Neck pain: Localized achiness or stiffness.

2. Radiating arm pain: Sharp pain following the C6 nerve distribution.

3. Numbness or tingling: “Pins and needles” in the thumb or index finger.

4. Muscle weakness: Especially in the biceps or wrist extensor muscles.

5. Reflex changes: Diminished biceps reflex on the affected side.

6. Headaches: Pain at the base of the skull.

7. Shoulder blade discomfort: Deep ache below the scapula.

8. Reduced neck motion: Difficulty turning or tilting the head.

9. Pain worsened by coughing/sneezing: Valsalva maneuvers increase pressure.

10. Pain aggravated by bending: Flexion or extension intensifies symptoms.

11. Hand clumsiness: Decreased dexterity from nerve involvement.

12. Muscle spasms: Involuntary neck muscle contractions.

13. Sensory loss: Anesthesia in specific skin areas.

14. Gait disturbances: Rare, when spinal cord compression occurs.

15. Balance problems: If myelopathy develops.

16. Arms feel heavy: From nerve root irritation.

17. Burning sensations: Along the arm or hand.

18. Pain relief when lying down: Reduced gravitational load on the disc.

19. Neck crepitus: Grinding or crackling sounds with movement.

20. Sleep disturbances: Pain interferes with rest. Cleveland ClinicWebMD.

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Diagnostic Tests

1. Patient history: Symptom onset, aggravating/relieving factors.

2. Physical examination: Inspection, palpation for tenderness.

3. Neurological exam: Assess strength, sensation, and reflexes.

4. Spurling’s test: Compression of the neck to reproduce radicular pain.

5. Neck distraction test: Relief of pain when the neck is lifted.

6. Lhermitte’s sign: Electric shock sensation on neck flexion.

7. X-ray: To rule out fractures, alignment issues.

8. MRI: Gold standard for soft-tissue visualization.

9. CT scan: Alternative when MRI contraindicated.

10. CT myelography: Contrast study to visualize nerve compression.

11. EMG (Electromyography): Measures muscle electrical activity.

12. Nerve conduction studies: Assess speed of nerve impulses.

13. Discography: Contrast injection to provoke pain in suspected disc.

14. SSEP (Somatosensory evoked potentials): Tests spinal cord pathways.

15. Ultrasound: Limited use for superficial soft tissues.

16. Flexion-extension X-rays: Assess segmental instability.

17. Facet joint injection: Diagnostic/therapeutic.

18. Selective nerve root block: Local anesthetic to confirm pain source.

19. Bone scan: To rule out infection or tumor.

20. Laboratory tests: Rule out inflammatory or infectious causes. Mayo ClinicPenn Medicine.

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Non-Pharmacological Treatments

1. Cervical traction

2. McKenzie extension exercises

3. Williams flexion exercises

4. Core strengthening

5. Postural correction

6. Ergonomic workstation setup

7. Heat therapy (moist heat)

8. Cold packs

9. Ultrasound therapy

10. Electrical stimulation (TENS)

11. Manual therapy (gentle mobilization)

12. Massage therapy

13. Acupuncture

14. Chiropractic manipulation (by trained professional)

15. Yoga for neck relief

16. Pilates-based stabilization

17. Aquatic therapy

18. Inversion therapy (with supervision)

19. Cervical pillow support

20. Soft cervical collar (short-term)

21. Postural taping

22. Spinal decompression table therapy

23. Occupational therapy for activity modification

24. Weight loss and body mechanics education

25. Lifestyle modifications (smoking cessation)

26. Sleep surface optimization

27. Relaxation and stress management

28. Biofeedback

29. Dry needling

30. Patient education on neck biomechanics Verywell HealthHealthline.

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Pharmacological Treatments

1. Ibuprofen (NSAID)

2. Naproxen (NSAID)

3. Diclofenac (NSAID)

4. Meloxicam (NSAID)

5. Celecoxib (COX-2 inhibitor)

6. Acetaminophen

7. Prednisone (short-term oral steroid)

8. Methylprednisolone (taper pack)

9. Cyclobenzaprine (muscle relaxant)

10. Diazepam (muscle relaxant)

11. Gabapentin (anticonvulsant)

12. Pregabalin (anticonvulsant)

13. Amitriptyline (TCA)

14. Duloxetine (SNRI)

15. Tramadol (weak opioid)

16. Oxycodone (strong opioid, sparingly)

17. Lidocaine patch (topical analgesic)

18. Diclofenac gel (topical NSAID)

19. Baclofen (muscle relaxant)

20. Tizanidine (muscle relaxant) Spine-healthNCBI.

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Surgical Options

1. Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF)

2. Posterior Cervical Laminoforaminotomy

3. Posterior Cervical Discectomy

4. Cervical Disc Arthroplasty (Artificial Disc Replacement)

5. Cervical Microdiscectomy

6. Cervical Laminectomy

7. Laminoplasty

8. Partial Corpectomy

9. Endoscopic Cervical Discectomy

10. Foraminotomy with microsurgical decompression Spine-healthVerywell Health.

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Prevention Strategies

1. Maintain proper head-in-neutral posture Spine.

2. Use ergonomic workstations and chairs.

3. Practice safe lifting techniques (bend at hips/knees).

4. Perform regular neck and core strengthening exercises.

5. Take frequent breaks from prolonged sitting.

6. Keep a healthy body weight Verywell Health.

7. Stay well hydrated for disc nutrition.

8. Quit smoking National Spine Health Foundation.

9. Use supportive pillows and mattresses.

10. Warm up before sports or strenuous activity.

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When to See a Doctor

• Severe or worsening arm weakness or numbness

• Loss of bladder or bowel control (red flag)

• Pain that does not improve with conservative care after 4–6 weeks

• Signs of spinal cord compression (gait disturbance, balance problems)

• Fever, unexplained weight loss, or history of cancer

• Intolerable pain that awakens you at night Mayo Clinic.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What exactly causes a C5–C6 disc to prolapse?
   Age-related wear and tear weakens the disc, while sudden trauma or repeated strain can tear the annulus, allowing the nucleus to push out and compress nerves Wikipedia.

2. Can a cervical disc herniation heal on its own?
   Many herniations shrink or resorb over weeks to months with conservative treatment; severe cases may require surgery Verywell Health.

3. What exercises help a C5–C6 disc prolapse?
   Gentle McKenzie extension exercises and chin-tuck stabilization can relieve pressure on the disc Healthline.

4. Is surgery always necessary?
   No—most patients improve with non-surgical care; surgery is reserved for persistent pain, neurological deficits, or red-flag signs Verywell Health.

5. How long is recovery after ACDF?
   Patients often return to light activities within days; full fusion and return to normal function take 2–3 months Spine-health.

6. What are the risks of cervical disc surgery?
   Risks include infection, nerve injury, nonunion (failed fusion), and adjacent segment disease Wikipedia.

7. Can I work with a C5–C6 disc herniation?
   Many can continue desk work with modifications; heavy manual labor may require rest or job accommodation.

8. Are there medications to protect the disc?
   No protective drugs exist; medications only relieve symptoms.

9. What is the difference between bulge and herniation?
   A bulge involves the entire disc extending out evenly; a herniation is a focal break in the annulus with nuclear material protrusion Wikipedia.

10. Can poor posture cause disc prolapse?
    Yes—chronic forward head posture increases shear forces on C5–C6 and accelerates degeneration Spine-health.

11. Is neck traction effective?
    Cervical traction can relieve nerve root compression and reduce pain in select patients Verywell Health.

12. How can I prevent recurrence?
    Maintain good ergonomics, exercise regularly, stay hydrated, and avoid smoking.

13. Will my symptoms spread to my legs?
    Unlikely, as cervical herniations affect upper limb nerves; leg symptoms suggest thoracic or lumbar issues.

14. Can chiropractic adjustments worsen a herniation?
    Forceful manipulations are not recommended; gentle mobilizations by trained providers may help.

15. When should I get an MRI?
    If pain persists beyond 4–6 weeks or neurological signs appear, an MRI helps guide treatment Mayo Clinic.

Disclaimer: Each person’s journey is unique, treatment plan, life style, food habit, hormonal condition, immune system, chronic disease condition, geological location, weather and previous medical  history is also unique. So always seek the best advice from a qualified medical professional or health care provider before trying any treatments to ensure to find out the best plan for you. This guide is for general information and educational purposes only. Regular check-ups and awareness can help to manage and prevent complications associated with these diseases conditions. If you or someone are suffering from this disease condition bookmark this website or share with someone who might find it useful! Boost your knowledge and stay ahead in your health journey. We always try to ensure that the content is regularly updated to reflect the latest medical research and treatment options. Thank you for giving your valuable time to read the article.

The article is written by Team Rxharun and reviewed by the Rx Editorial Board Members

Last Updated: April 28, 2025.

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