A herniated disc in the c5-c6 level of the spine can cause weakness in the biceps muscles of the arms and wrist extensor muscles as well as numbness and tingling along with pain that radiates to the thumb and fingertips. c5-c6 is one of the most common levels for a cervical disc herniation to occur.
A c5-c6 herniated disc can affect the nerves that control the muscles in the arms, neck, shoulders, hands as well as the head, eyes, ears, or thyroid gland. Symptoms in these areas in addition to pain in the neck is very common with c5-c6 disc herniations. Symptoms of c5-c6 disc herniation can include numbness, tingling, burning, weakness, problems with vision, and more.
What causes a c5-c6 disc herniation?
The most common cause of a herniated disc is an injury or trauma, such as from an auto accident or work comp injury. Whether it be from a car accident, lifting something heavy, a sports-related injury, or something else entirely, this condition can be very painful and bothersome.
There is also a genetic component to this and other back conditions. If you have any other family members who suffer with spine pain or herniated/bulging discs, you could be predisposed you to disc herniation.