It is difficult to watch loved ones struggle with spinal cord injuries such as a herniated disc or slipped disc. Due to trauma caused in car accidents or motorcycle accidents, the disc is damaged and pushed into nerve roots. This causes intense pain in the neck, shoulder or arms. When a bulging disc injury occurs close to the neck, it may pinch nerves, causing pain in the shoulders and arms. Other victims of spinal cord injuries experience paralysis, which limits motor functions.