Written by Dr. Matthias Wiederholz, MD | Last Updated: July 2025
A C5 C6 herniated disc is when the cushioning disc between the fifth and sixth neck bones bulges or ruptures, often causing neck and arm pain. Most cases improve with expert-guided physical therapy and medications.
Living with a C5 C6 herniated disc can disrupt everyday activities, relationships, and well-being—prompt, evidence-based care helps prevent chronic pain and long-term nerve damage. Understanding your options empowers you to regain comfort, mobility, and control over your life.
As a board-certified physician in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation and Pain Medicine with over 20 years of experience, I’ve seen how a C5 C6 herniated disc can disrupt lives for Houston patients seeking lasting relief. If you want to learn more about neck-related care options, explore comprehensive neck pain treatment services available at our clinic.
This condition occurs when the disc between the fifth and sixth vertebrae in your cervical spine (neck) bulges or ruptures, placing pressure on nearby nerve roots. That pressure can trigger pain, numbness, and weakness radiating from your neck into the arm or hand—impacting even simple daily tasks.
Most people get better with nonsurgical approaches, including specialized physical therapy and targeted medications, while treatments like steroid injections or surgery are considered only if symptoms persist or worsen. The effectiveness of these stepwise treatments, and when to escalate care for a c5 c6 herniated disc, is detailed in evidence-based clinical guidelines from major spine centers like Cedars-Sinai.
With cutting-edge options available locally in Houston, you can finally move beyond guesswork and reclaim comfort through expert, individualized care.
The cervical spine is the upper part of your spinal column, made up of seven vertebrae labeled C1 through C7. The C5-C6 level refers to the disc between the fifth and sixth vertebrae in your neck. This area is crucial because it protects the spinal cord and allows nerves to branch out to your shoulders, arms, and hands.
A herniated disc occurs when the soft inner core of a spinal disc pushes through a tear in the tough outer layer (annulus fibrosis). At the C5-C6 level, this can compress the nerve root, leading to pain, numbness, or weakness that radiates from the neck into the arm or hand. In my 20 years of treating spine conditions, I’ve seen how these symptoms can disrupt daily life for patients in Houston.
Common causes include age-related disc degeneration, sudden injuries, or repetitive strain. Over time, discs lose water and flexibility, making them more prone to herniation. According to Cedars-Sinai, C5-C6 is one of the most frequent sites for disc herniation in the neck.
Key symptoms of a C5-C6 herniated disc include:
If you’re interested in learning more about the anatomy and distribution of the S1 nerve, which is often referenced when discussing spinal disc disorders, see this overview of S1 nerve anatomy and symptoms.
A C5 C6 herniated disc causes neck and arm pain, numbness, and weakness. Most cases improve with physical therapy, medications, and injections; surgery or minimally invasive options are considered for severe or persistent symptoms.
For patients in Houston, early recognition and expert evaluation are essential. My quadruple board certification in spine and pain medicine informs my approach to diagnosing and managing these complex cases, ensuring you receive the most effective cervical disc treatment in Houston.
To understand what symptoms may suggest a bulging disc specifically at C5-C6 and how they differ from other cervical disc levels, read our article on symptoms of bulging disc in neck C5 C6.
When managing a c5 c6 herniated disc, I always start with conservative treatments and progress to advanced options only if necessary. This stepwise approach is supported by research and my clinical experience in Houston. If you want a deeper dive into treatments that don’t require surgery, check out our comprehensive guide to C5-C6 disc bulge treatment without surgery.
Most patients benefit from non-surgical care. The main conservative treatments I recommend include:
In my practice, I’ve found that most patients in Houston experience relief with these methods. If symptoms persist beyond several weeks, I consider more advanced options.
For an in-depth look at alternative non-surgical therapies, including options tailored for L5-S1 pain but relevant to the cervical spine, explore this post on managing L4-L5 pain symptoms.
For those who do not respond to conservative care, I offer a range of minimally invasive and surgical treatments:
For real patient experiences and outcomes with this minimally invasive procedure, see Discseel® reviews for lasting back pain relief.
If you're interested in learning more about the Discseel® Procedure itself—including research updates and how it works—visit the official Discseel® website.
Pros and cons of each treatment:
My experience as a master instructor in regenerative spine procedures allows me to tailor these options to each patient’s needs, ensuring the best possible outcome.
If you want to understand the similarities and differences between lumbar and cervical herniated disc treatments, read our guide on L5-S1 herniated disc surgery options.
Certain symptoms require immediate evaluation by a physician:
If you experience any of these, seek urgent care or contact a spine specialist in Houston. For more information on emergency symptoms, visit the AANS guidance on herniated cervical disc emergencies.
If you’re struggling with a c5 c6 herniated disc, the right next step is a personalized evaluation. I always recommend starting with conservative care, progressing to advanced treatments only if symptoms persist. My training in both pain medicine and regenerative therapies ensures you receive the most up-to-date, evidence-based care.
For Houston residents, my clinic offers the full spectrum of cervical disc treatment in Houston, including physical therapy, spinal decompression, and advanced procedures. As the first Houston spine specialist to perform the Discseel® Procedure, I provide a minimally invasive, non-surgical option for carefully selected patients. Having performed hundreds of Discseel® procedures, I’ve seen many patients regain comfort and function without surgery.
If you’re ready to explore your options, see if you’re a candidate for advanced c5 c6 herniated disc treatment by scheduling a consultation or taking our self-assessment quiz. My team at Performance Pain and Sports Medicine is committed to helping you return to the activities you love with expert, compassionate care.
For patients seeking care in the Houston area, find out more about our Houston location, including directions and appointment availability.
Patient experiences are at the heart of my practice, especially when it comes to complex spine conditions like a C5 C6 herniated disc. After 20 years of helping patients regain comfort and function, I know that every case requires a personalized, evidence-based approach.
As someone who trains physicians nationally in advanced spine procedures, I am committed to offering the safest and most effective treatments—always starting with conservative care and progressing only when necessary. My role as one of only three master instructors worldwide for the Discseel® Procedure allows me to provide innovative, minimally invasive options for those who need them, but I ensure every patient understands all available choices.
My goal is to empower you with clear information and compassionate guidance, so you can make confident decisions about your health. Whether you’re seeking relief through physical therapy, advanced injections, or exploring new regenerative techniques, you can trust that your care is grounded in both experience and the latest medical research.
For additional insights into the causes and treatment options specific to disc tears, see this guide to spinal disc tears: causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
Living in Houston means access to a wide range of advanced spine care options, including treatments for C5 C6 herniated discs. As the first physician to bring the Discseel® Procedure to Houston, I’ve seen how local patients benefit from having minimally invasive solutions close to home.
Houston’s active population often faces neck and arm pain from sports, work, or daily activities, making timely, expert care essential. Research shows that early intervention with physical therapy and non-surgical treatments can significantly improve outcomes for cervical disc issues.
If you'd like a comprehensive overview of current treatment options for herniated disc-related pain, including new medical advances, check out this discussion of new treatments for ruptured discs.
My practice is dedicated to serving the Houston community with comprehensive, individualized care—whether you need conservative management or are considering advanced options like Discseel® among several innovative treatments we offer. If you’re in Houston and seeking relief, schedule a consultation to explore the best path forward for your spine health.
*This content reflects current medical guidelines and Dr. Wiederholz's 20+ years of clinical experience.*
After 20 years of treating spine conditions and pioneering regenerative treatments in Houston, I know that most people with a C5 C6 herniated disc can achieve relief through a stepwise, evidence-based approach. Conservative treatments—like physical therapy and medications—are effective for many, while advanced options such as epidural injections, minimally invasive procedures, or surgery are reserved for persistent or severe cases. As Houston’s first Discseel® provider and one of only three master instructors worldwide, I offer a unique combination of advanced training and comprehensive care, ensuring every patient receives the most appropriate solution for their needs. If you’re ready to explore your options, see if you are a candidate for the Discseel® procedure by scheduling a consultation or taking our self-assessment quiz. My commitment is to help you return to the activities you love with expert, compassionate care right here in Houston.
If you'd like to discuss your neck pain or spine symptoms further, contact us for a consultation.
*This article is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment options. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this article.*
The best treatment for a C5 C6 herniated disc usually starts with conservative options like physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and activity modification. Most patients improve without surgery. If symptoms persist, options such as epidural steroid injections or minimally invasive procedures may be considered. Surgery is reserved for severe or progressive cases, as supported by clinical research on cervical disc herniation.
You can find comprehensive care for C5 C6 herniated disc in Houston at specialized spine clinics offering both conservative and advanced treatments. My clinic provides physical therapy, spinal decompression, and minimally invasive options like the Discseel® Procedure, alongside traditional surgical referrals when needed. A personalized evaluation helps determine the most effective approach for your specific symptoms and goals.
A C5 C6 herniated disc can cause neck pain, arm weakness, or numbness, making it difficult to perform tasks that require lifting, typing, or fine motor skills. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent long-term nerve damage and help you maintain productivity. Many professionals return to work after conservative care, but persistent symptoms may require more advanced interventions.
