Cervical Radiculopathy

In the human body, there are 31 pairs of nerves that exit the spine. Each of these nerves has the potential to be pinched or irritated at the root, causing pain. Depending on whether the irritation occurs in the upper or lower spine, these conditions are known as cervical radiculopathy or lumbar radiculopathy.

What is Cervical Radiculopathy?

Cervical radiculopathy is an irritation or compression of one or more nerve roots in the cervical spine, the portion of the spine which begins at the base of the skull and extends into the shoulders. Nerves in the cervical spine travel to the shoulders, arms and hands, so an injury can cause various symptoms in those areas.

What Causes the Condition?

A number of issues with bone and tissue in the cervical spinal column can cause radiculopathy, including:

Herniated disc: A bulge in the disc -- the cushions that sit between the vertebrae -- pushes against a nerve and irritates it.
Degenerative disc disease: A weakened disc allows vertebrae to pinch nerves.
Spinal stenosis: A narrowing of the spinal canal that puts pressure on nerves.

What are the Symptoms of the Condition?

Symptoms of cervical radiculopathy usually occur in the neck, shoulders, arms and hands and may include:

Pain in the neck that spreads down one or both arms
Pain in the region of the shoulder blades
Numbness, tingling or weakness in the neck, shoulders, arms or hands
Lack of coordination, particularly in the hands

What Treatments are Available?

Medication: Anti-inflammatory drugs may be used to provide relief from symptoms while a treatment plan is developed and implemented.
Physical therapy: Mobilization exercises and gentle traction can help reduce pain and relieve compression on the nerves.
Fluoroscopic guided spine injections: Guided by a form of X-ray, doses of cortisone, lubricants and anesthetics can be delivered precisely to the affected area to provide relief. Click here for more about guided injections.
Spinal cord stimulator: This device can be implanted to send adjustable electrical signals to the cervical spine to relieve pain. Click here for more about the spinal cord stimulator.
Surgical treatment: If other methods are not effective, surgery may be required to relieve pressure on the nerves.

Why Seek an Evaluation for Cervical Radiculopathy?

Cervical radiculopathy may require a combination of treatments to provide maximum relief, and a proper diagnosis is critical to helping you manage the condition. Contact us today to find out what treatment options are right for you.

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