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Slipped
Disc Introduction
A slipped disc
or a "cervical
Disc Pro-lapse"
will cause neck
pain which can
radiate to the
arm. A slipped
disc is less
common in the
neck compared
to the lower
back. Contact
sports such
as rugby are
high risk sports
for neck injuries.
The discs consist
of a circle
of connective
tissue with
a central gel-like
core. This makes
the spine flexible
and at the same
time acts as
a protective
buffer.
A slipped disc
occurs due to
the breaking
down of the
circle of connective
tissue with
advancing age.
This causes
a weakness allowing
the soft part
to swell.
Repeated stress
to a rugby players
neck caused
by tackling
can lead to
degeneration
of the outer
layer if the
discs which
will cause a
slipped disc.
Slipped
Disc in the
Neck Signs &
Symptoms
The player
will complain
of severe pain
in the neck
and shoulder
which may radiate
to the arm.
The pain will
worsen when
the neck is
moved side to
side and in
some cases coughing
can also trigger
the pain. The
player may find
it difficult
to sleep and
drive, muscle
spasms in the
neck may also
occur.
In some cases
the player will
not complain
of neck pain
but only arm
pain and vice
versa.
Slipped
Disc in the
Neck Treatment
Initially the
player should
rest and take
pain killers.
The doctor may
prescribe anti
inflammatory
medication.
A soft neck
collar to support
the neck and
prevent movement
will be necessary.
This will remove
stress on the
neck and allow
healing. Neck
pain pillows
for the bed,
car and sofa
can help to
correct neck
alignment and
limit movement.
A physiotherapist
will use gentle
massage and
recommend the
use of heat
packs to relive
pain and muscle
spasms.
Traction is
often used for
a slipped disc
in the neck;
this involves
the upwards
pulling force
to the neck.
This strengthens
and lengthens
the neck, which
in turn relieves
pressure on
the neck . It
also alleviates
symptoms and
pressure on
the nerve roots.
What
you can do
- Consult
a sports injury
expert
- Wear a neck
collar for
warmth and
support
- Use a supportive
neck pillow
at night to
promote correct
neck alignment
- Use heat
packs &
massage to
relieve muscle
spasm &
pain
 Reusable
hot and cold
pack
Rugby
Rescue Recommends
Hamstring Supports
5 Star Rating
 View
neck support
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