What Are the Signs & Symptoms of a C7 T1 Herniated Disk?
A herniated disk is a spine condition where the soft tissue within the spine called the nucleus is pressed out of the vertebrae, where it may compress nerves and cause pain or other signs and symptoms. The signs and symptoms of a herniated disk depend on which disk is herniated due to the nerves located in that area. The C7 T1 is a cervical disk located at the base of the neck, and a hernia in this area may press against the C7 and C8 nerve roots, causing a variety of symptoms.
Numbness
If the nucleus from a herniated C7 T1 disk presses against the C8 nerve, it may result in numbness. This numbness is usually localized to one or both arms or hands and often manifests itself as numbness of the little finger on either hand. The numbness may increase or decrease depending on movement and treatment, and may shift from one part of the hand to another or from one arm to the other.
Tingling
Tingling in any part of the body is usually caused by pressure on one or more nerves. When a C7 T1 disk is herniated, the protruding tissue may partially compress the C8 nerve or surrounding nerves, which may then cause tingling in the arms, hands or little fingers of each hand. The tingling caused by compressed nerves due to a herniated disk is often described as feeling like "pins and needles." The tingling sensation may be painful.
Weakness
A herniated C7 T1 disk may manifest itself as a weakened grip. This weakness may be continuous or occasional, and the severity will vary based on the individual condition and current treatment. Weakness may also occur only in specific fingers. In the case of a herniated C7 T1 disk, the weakness may only happen in the little finger on one or both hands. If the C7 nerve root is also compressed, you may experience numbness in the middle finger as well.
Pain
A herniated disk that has compressed one or more nerves may cause pain. A compressed C7 T1 disc may cause pain in one or both arms, in either hand or in the small fingers on both hands. If the C7 nerve root is also compressed, pain may be experienced in the middle finger as well. The pain that results from a herniated disk is variable. Pain may manifest as a dull ache, a sharp tingle, a burning sensation or intense heaviness, as if the appendage is being crushed. The pain may worsen or lessen with movement and treatment, and may radiate from one location to another.
Tags: herniated disk, cause pain, herniated disk, against nerve, also compressed