A 37-year-old, beautiful and resilient lady from a city in Iraq had been living with constant neck pain radiating to both her arms for many years. The pain affected her daily life, her work, and even simple tasks like lifting objects or sleeping comfortably. After trying multiple treatments in her home country with no lasting relief, she finally reached out to Artemis Hospital for help.
Understanding the urgency of her condition, she was guided to consult Dr Hitesh Garg, Head of Ortho Spine Surgery at Artemis Hospital, Gurugram, India — a leading centre for advanced spine treatment.
Diagnosis & Treatment Plan
Upon arrival, Dr. Garg performed a detailed evaluation, including clinical examination and advanced imaging. She was diagnosed with a C6–C7 cervical disc prolapse — a condition where the disc in the neck bulges out and compresses the spinal nerves, causing neck pain and arm pain (cervical radiculopathy).
Given the severity of her symptoms and the long duration of suffering, Dr. Garg recommended Anterior Cervical Disc Replacement (ACDR) at the C6–C7 level, a modern motion-preserving spine surgery.
Surgery & Recovery
The surgery was performed successfully using minimally invasive techniques.
To her joy and surprise, she felt significant pain relief the very next day. Her arm pain reduced, neck mobility improved, and she could move comfortably without the debilitating symptoms she had battled for years.
After spending two weeks in India, receiving care, rehabilitation guidance, and follow-up assessments, she returned to her country with a smile, comfort, and a pain-free life.
What Is Cervical Disc Prolapse?
Cervical disc prolapses (also called a herniated or slipped disc in the neck) occur when the soft inner portion of a disc bulges out and presses on the spinal nerves.
Common Causes
- Age-related disc degeneration
- Poor posture and long screen hours
- Sudden injury or whiplash
- Repetitive strain
- Genetics or weak neck muscles
Symptoms often include neck pain, radiating arm pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness in the hands.
Dr Hitesh Garg’s Opinion: Why Choose ACDR Surgery?
“Anterior Cervical Disc Replacement (ACDR) is one of the best options for young and active patients.
Unlike fusion, it preserves the natural movement of the neck, reduces the risk of adjacent segment degeneration, and offers faster recovery. Patients return to normal life much sooner.”
ACDR is preferred when the damaged disc needs to be removed, but spinal mobility must be maintained — making it ideal for patients who want to stay active and pain-free.
A Journey of Courage, Care & Healing
Her successful outcome reflects not only medical excellence but also her courage and trust.
From years of constant pain to a life full of movement and comfort — her journey is a powerful reminder that the right diagnosis and expert spine care can change a life forever.