Clients with cervical strains/disc herniation are commonly seen in the health club. These strains may range from minor muscle weakness and postural discomfort to severe neurologic impairment and radiating pain. Cervical disc symptoms include numbness/tingling, motor weakness, and pain. Due to this wide range of involvement, the cervical strain requires medical clearance from a physician prior to beginning any exercise with your client.
Cervical disc herniations occur in 8% of the population. The cervical disc herniation may result in radiating pain into the arm, weakness and numbness/tingling. A cervical movement may trigger the pain. Writing, lifting and other upper extremity activities may cause exacerbation of the symptoms. Any activities that increase radiating pain should be eliminated immediately. The use of a cervical pillow is highly recommended for sleeping.
The muscle structures of the cervical spine are small and thin. These structures are required to hold the head erect, stabilize the cervical spine and shoulder girdle when using the upper extremities. These are enormous tasks for small muscles. The primary consideration for the client with cervical strain is the development of cervical strength and stability to tolerate the tremendous stresses placed on the cervical musculature.
Clients with radiating pain, numbness/tingling and loss of sensation should be referred back to their physical therapist, physician or chiropractor for further clearance and fitness programming guidelines.
