A C6–C7 disc protrusion causing mild thecal sac and lateral recess indentation can produce neck pain, radiating shoulder/arm pain, chest-side pain with arm use, and tingling.
These symptoms occur because the C6–C7 nerve roots supply the neck, shoulders, arm muscles, and part of the upper back.
The good news is:
Next Steps
1. Physiotherapy is strongly recommended for:
• Cervical traction (if indicated)
• Neck mobility exercises
• Deep neck flexor strengthening
• Scapular stabilizer strengthening
• Posture retraining
• Myofascial release for upper back
2. Avoid surgery at this stage, unless:
• You develop severe weakness in the arm
• Loss of hand grip
• Loss of bowel/bladder control
• Unbearable pain not reducing after 6–8 weeks
3. Medications (as prescribed by a doctor):
• Muscle relaxants
• Nerve pain medicines (e.g., pregabalin/gabapentin, if needed)
• Anti-inflammatory medicines
4. Postural corrections:
• Avoid prolonged mobile/laptop use
• Use a firm pillow or cervical pillow
• Keep neck neutral
5. Lifestyle:
• Avoid heavy lifting
• Avoid sudden twisting of the neck
• Take breaks every 30–40 min during sitting
Health Tips
• Most cervical disc issues improve with 6–8 weeks of guided physiotherapy.
• Do not start random neck exercises from the internet—this can worsen symptoms.
• Mild disc protrusions are usually reversible without surgery if treated early.
• Continuous tingling suggests nerve irritation, which responds very well to physiotherapy + medications.