Understanding Cervical Radiculopathy
Causes, symptoms, and non-surgical treatment options for pinched nerves in the neck.
Cervical radiculopathy occurs when a nerve root in the neck becomes compressed or irritated as it exits the spinal cord. Because these nerves travel down from the neck to supply sensation and muscle control to the shoulders, arms, and hands, an issue originating in the neck often sends symptoms all the way down the arm.
Common Symptoms
Sharp or Burning Pain: Pain starting in the neck and radiating down through the shoulder, arm, forearm, or fingers.
Numbness or Pins and Needles: Reduced sensation or a “falling asleep” feeling in specific areas of the hand or arm.
Muscle Weakness: Difficulty lifting the arm, holding objects, or performing fine motor tasks like buttoning a shirt.
Positional Relief: Pain that worsens when turning or tilting the head, but improves when placing your arm on top of your head (taking pressure off the nerve).
Treatment
| Conservative | Lifestyle improvements, activity modification, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, and non-impact cardio |
| Intermediate | CT Guided Root Blocks |
| Surgery | Cervical decompression and total disc replacement or fusion. |
Red Flag Warnings
“When to seek immediate attention: Rapidly worsening arm weakness, sudden loss of coordination or balance; changes in leg or bowel/bladder control.
