It is generally accepted that there are three morphologic patterns of cervical disc herniation: neurogenic, anterolateral and central. The neural root canal type herniation is more common and causes more sensory impairment than motor impairment. Patients usually experience sensory impairment, sensory hypersensitivity and pain hypersensitivity in the neck, shoulder and the area they innervate. The anterolateral herniation shows more pronounced motor deficits, such as decreased muscle strength, muscle atrophy and motor weakness in the upper extremities, and decreased tone. The central type protrusion, which may compress the spinal cord in larger protrusions, is clinically characterized by clumsy fine hand movements, a feeling of stepping on cotton in the lower limbs, unstable gait, and balance disorders.