Eisenberg Law Offices, S.C. | June 3, 2025 | Personal Injury
Neck injuries are one of the most common and painful consequences of accidents like car crashes, falls, or workplace accidents. Among these, a herniated disc at the C4/C5, C5/C6, or C6/C7 level of the cervical spine can cause serious and long-lasting problems.
If you’re dealing with a neck injury after an accident, here’s what you should know about herniated discs in the cervical spine, especially around the C5-C6 region.
The spine comprises vertebrae with small discs in between, which absorb shock and help you move smoothly. When one of these discs bulges out or ruptures, it’s called a herniated or “slipped” disc.
In the neck (cervical spine), this usually happens between the C4-C5, C5-C6, or C6-C7 vertebrae. A bulging disc in the neck at C5-C6 is one of the most common locations because this area handles a lot of stress from movement and supporting your head.
A herniated disc can press on nearby nerves or even the spinal cord. There are eight pairs of cervical nerve roots that exit the spinal cord between the vertebrae. Symptoms of a herniated disc depend on the location and nerve that’s compressed.
C5-C6 disc herniation symptoms are felt at the C6 nerve, for example, while C6-C7 symptoms are felt at the C7 nerve.
Common symptoms of a bulging disc in the neck at C5-C6 (C6 nerve) include:
Paresthesia usually affects the outside of the forearm, hand, and outer two fingers when the C6 nerve is pinched. The C5 nerve usually causes paresthesia of the outside of the arm. The C7 nerve may cause paresthesia of the inner forearm and middle finger.
At the C4-C5 level, motion is more likely to be affected at the shoulder and elbow.
Over time, injury or wear and tear can lead to disc space narrowing. This happens when the disc between the vertebrae shrinks or degenerates. The reduced space can cause the vertebrae to rub together and trigger the development of bone spurs. These bony growths can compress the nerve roots or even the spinal cord itself.
C5-C6 disc space narrowing symptoms may include persistent neck pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. You may experience weakness or numbness of the hands and arms.
This condition can develop from an untreated herniated disc or naturally with age.
When the spinal cord itself is compressed, it’s called cervical myelopathy. This condition is more serious with symptoms that tend to worsen with time.
Symptoms of spinal cord compression at C5-6 may include difficulty walking, poor coordination, weakness in the legs, and the loss of dexterity and fine motor skills. In severe cases, it may cause bowel or bladder dysfunction. Surgery, such as a discectomy, may be needed to remove the damaged disc and a portion of the vertebra.
The long-term effects of a herniated disc in the neck can vary depending on how severe the damage is and how quickly it’s treated. Some people recover fully with conservative treatment, while others may live with chronic pain or mobility issues.
Possible long-term complications include:
In rare cases, paralysis can occur if the spinal cord is badly compressed.
Chronic neck problems can also affect your quality of life, making it harder to work, sleep, or perform daily tasks.
Herniated discs are often caused by trauma or stress to the spine.
Common causes include:
Even a seemingly minor accident can lead to a herniated disc if the force is strong enough.
If you’ve been in an accident and are experiencing neck pain or symptoms like numbness or tingling, see a doctor right away. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and improve your outcome.
Doctors may recommend physical therapy, medication, steroid injections, or even surgery, depending on the severity of the disc damage.
Without medical care, a herniated disc may result in permanent nerve damage, bone spurs, and spinal cord compression that could otherwise be avoided.
If your herniated disc was caused by someone else’s negligence, like a careless driver, you may be entitled to compensation. Damages can include medical expenses, lost wages, future earning potential, and pain and suffering, including physical pain and mental or psychological anguish. A personal injury attorney can help you file a claim and negotiate with the insurance company so you can focus on healing.
For more information, contact an experienced personal injury lawyer at Eisenberg Law Offices, S.C. to schedule a free consultation today.
Eisenberg Law Offices S.C. is a trusted personal injury law firm in Madison, WI, dedicated to fighting for your deserved compensation. Our experienced attorneys will negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf and ensure your rights are protected. Contact us today for a free consultation.
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