###Human: I have increased twitching in the left thumb. Is that a sign of cervical disc herniation worsening? ###Assistant: Hi. A herniated disc in the neck can cause three potential problems: As long as you do not have spinal cord dysfunction or significant weakness due to nerve compression, then you can try nonsurgical treatments like physical therapy, pain medication, or steroid injections. If you continue to have significant arm pain or neurological symptoms for more than 6 weeks or develop weakness then you may need surgery.  An EMG/NCS (Electromyogram/Nerve Conduction Studies) test looks at the function of your nerves in the arm. It might be helpful if you get this test done to confirm that the MRI findings and pain you have correlate, before deciding whether to undergo surgery.