Herniated disc refers to the displacement of the intervertebral disc beyond its normal boundaries. Disc damage can result from moderate but repeated overload (as in manual labor), lifting heavy objects, or a sudden twisting of the torso. A cervical disc herniation causes localized pain in the back of the neck, which may worsen with coughing and can radiate to the shoulder and arm. A cervical trauma of significant severity can present with a wide range of symptoms, from simple muscle pain to quadriplegia.
