Surgical Spine Procedures: What Is the Difference Between Cervical and Lumbar Discs?

If you're experiencing persistent neck or lower back pain in Scottsdale, Arizona, you might have heard about artificial disc replacement as a treatment option. But how do cervical and lumbar discs differ, and what does that mean for your spine health? Understanding these differences can help you make informed decisions about your treatment options.
 

Cervical vs. Lumbar Discs

Your spine is divided into different regions, with the cervical spine making up your neck and the lumbar spine supporting your lower back. While both areas contain intervertebral discs that act as cushions between vertebrae, their structure, function, and the type of stress they endure vary significantly.

• Cervical Discs (Neck): These discs are smaller and designed for flexibility. Your neck allows for a wide range of motion—turning side to side, looking up and down, and tilting your head. When these discs degenerate or become damaged, they can cause pain, numbness, and even weakness in the arms and hands.

• Lumbar Discs (Lower Back): These are much larger and bear the weight of your upper body. While they provide some flexibility, their primary job is to absorb the heavy load and impact that comes from walking, lifting, and general movement. When lumbar discs become damaged, the result is often lower back pain, sciatica, or difficulty with mobility.
   

Cervical Artificial Disc Replacement

For patients dealing with cervical disc issues, artificial disc replacement (ADR) is an advanced surgical option that helps maintain natural movement in the neck. Unlike traditional spinal fusion, which limits mobility, a cervical artificial disc is designed to mimic the function of a natural disc. Motion preservation means you can move more freely after surgery compared to a fusion with less risk of adjacent discs breaking down over time.

In Scottsdale, where an active lifestyle is common—whether it's golfing, hiking in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, or simply staying mobile—preserving neck movement is crucial. Cervical ADR offers a way to relieve pain while allowing you to maintain the flexibility needed for everyday activities.
 

Lumbar Artificial Disc Replacement

Artificial disc replacement is also an option for some patients with lower back pain. While lumbar ADR is less commonly performed than cervical ADR due to the increased stress placed on lower back discs, it can still be a life-changing procedure for the right candidates. A lumbar artificial disc helps maintain movement in the lower back while avoiding the long-term complications associated with spinal fusion.

If you're dealing with lower back pain in Scottsdale, you know how limiting it can be. Whether it’s preventing you from enjoying outdoor activities or making simple tasks like sitting at your desk uncomfortable, lumbar ADR could offer a path to relief without the stiffness of traditional fusion.
 

Which Procedure Is Right for You?

The decision between cervical or lumbar artificial disc replacement depends on where your pain originates, the severity of your symptoms, and your overall health. Each patient is different, and at our practice in Scottsdale, we take the time to evaluate your unique situation before recommending the best course of action.
 

Take the Next Step Toward Relief

Living with chronic neck or lower back pain can be frustrating, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Whether you’re considering cervical or lumbar artificial disc replacement, the right treatment can restore mobility and improve your quality of life. Understanding your options is the first step toward lasting relief.

If you're struggling with neck or lower back pain and wondering if artificial disc replacement is right for you, schedule a consultation with Dr. Luis M. Tumialán, MD. Visit our office Scottsdale, Arizona, or call (480) 771-0700 to book an appointment today.