Cervical radiculopathy is also called a “pinched nerve,.” This painful circumstance occurs when a nerve in the neck becomes compressed or irritated. Neck compression can potentially lead to a range of uncomfortable and sometimes debilitating symptoms, including pain, weakness, or numbness that radiates down the arm and into the hand.
What Causes Cervical Radiculopathy?
Cervical radiculopathy is typically caused by changes in the spine that affect the nerve roots exiting the cervical (neck) region. Common causes include:
- Herniated Discs: Discs act as cushions between the spine’s vertebrae. When the outer layer of a disc weakens, its inner material can bulge or rupture, placing pressure on nearby nerve roots. This is a frequent cause of cervical radiculopathy in younger individuals.
- Bone Spurs: Over time, natural wear and tear on the spine can lead to bony growths or osteophytes forming. These bone spurs can narrow the spaces where nerves exit the spine (foramina), causing compression. This is more common in older adults.
- Degenerative Changes: Conditions like cervical spondylosis, a form of arthritis in the neck, can contribute to the narrowing of spinal spaces and result in nerve compression.
- Trauma: Acute injuries, such as whiplash from a car accident, can disrupt the alignment of the cervical spine and compress nerves.
- Other Conditions: In rare cases, tumors, infections, or systemic inflammatory diseases may also lead to cervical radiculopathy.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Cervical Radiculopathy
Symptoms of cervical radiculopathy can vary depending on the severity of the nerve compression and the specific nerve root affected. Common symptoms include:
- Neck Pain: Pain originating in the neck that may be sharp or aching.
- Radiating Pain: Pain that travels from the neck down the arm and into the hand or fingers, often described as burning or electric-like.
- Numbness and Tingling: A “pins and needles” sensation or loss of feeling in the arm or hand.
- Muscle Weakness: Difficulty performing tasks requiring strength in the affected arm, such as gripping or lifting objects.
- Reflex Changes: Reduced or exaggerated reflex responses in the arm.
Diagnosing Cervical Radiculopathy
When cervical radiculopathy is suspected, a healthcare provider will begin with a comprehensive evaluation, which may include:
- Medical History: A doctor cannot help a patient without getting the full picture of what the patient has gone through, medically speaking, in his or her life.
- Physical Examination: Assessing range of motion, muscle strength, reflexes, and areas of tenderness.
- Imaging Studies: This includes taking X-rays, MRIs, and CAT scans to see firsthand what could be going on.
- Electrodiagnostic Testing: Nerve conduction studies or electromyography (EMG) to assess nerve function and pinpoint areas of compression.
Treatment Options for Cervical Radiculopathy
Treatment for cervical radiculopathy is meant to alleviate pain, restore function, and address the underlying cause. The appropriate approach depends on the severity of symptoms and the condition’s root cause. Options include:
- Physical Therapy: Manual techniques and exercises to improve mobility, strengthen neck and shoulder muscles, and reduce nerve compression
- Medications: Over-the-counter medications, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (also known as NSAIDs, and sold under the name Aleve), for short-term pain alleviation
- Lifestyle Modifications: Ergonomic adjustments, such as improving posture and workstation setup, can minimize strain on the cervical spine
- Activity Modifications: Avoid activities that exacerbate symptoms while incorporating gentle stretches and exercises
- Epidural Steroid Injections: Administering corticosteroids near the affected nerve root to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain
- Discectomy: Removing all or partl of a herniated disc to relieve nerve pressure
- Spinal Fusion: Stabilizing the spine by fusing two or more vertebrae
- Acupuncture: Stimulating specific points to relieve pain and improve circulation
Let Long Island Spine Rehabilitation Medicine, PC, Get You Out of Pain
If you’re experiencing neck pain, radiating arm symptoms, or other signs of cervical radiculopathy, it’s essential to seek professional care. At Long Island Spine Rehabilitation Medicine, PC, our team specializes in diagnosing and treating cervical radiculopathy with personalized, evidence-based approaches. Make an appointment today to start your journey toward relief and improved quality of life.