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Spine Conditions
Cervical Radiculopathy
Overview
Cervical radiculopathy, or pinched nerve, arises due to compression of the nerve in the neck (cervical spine). A pinched nerve can cause neurological dysfunction, such as numbness, muscle weakness, and pain. The pain can travel beyond the neck to the chest, arms, shoulders, and upper back. These types of deficits may eventually worsen over a long period, affecting the patient’s quality of life and day-to-day functions.
Common Signs of Cervical Radiculopathy
The pain from cervical radiculopathy, which is caused by compression of the nerve roots in the cervical spine, spreads from the neck into the arm. It is known as neuropathic pain and is commonly described as sharp, burning. Specific movements like turning the head or straining the neck can intensify the pain.
Additional symptoms include the following:
- Pins and needles sensation or a tingling feeling in the fingers and hands.
- Weakness in the hand, arm or shoulder
- A numb feeling or loss of sensation
Causes of Cervical Radiculopathy
Degenerative changes to the spine due to age or a traumatic injury, such as a car accident or a fall, could be the main cause of cervical radiculopathy. These changes may result in a protruding or herniated intervertebral disc. The spinal discs may age over time, causing them to lose height. Water content is also lost, resulting in dry and stiff spinal discs. Degenerative changes to the spinal discs may result in the collapse of the disc space. These changes, which are significant and detrimental to spine health, can cause spinal instability and pain. Therefore, it's important to be cautious and prevent traumatic injuries that can lead to cervical radiculopathy.
Treatment for Cervical Radiculopathy
Treatment for cervical radiculopathy varies in each case, depending on its severity. After a thorough evaluation, both the doctor and the patient can decide on a treatment plan.
Non-surgical treatments consist of the following:
- A soft cervical collar facilitates the healing and recovery of the neck muscles.
- Physical therapy exercises are designed to strengthen the neck muscles and improve flexibility in the area.
- However, surgery is often advised in severe cases when the pain fails to improve with non-surgical treatments.
Cervical Radiculopathy FAQ:
How long do symptoms of cervical radiculopathy last?
Symptoms can vary depending on severity and treatment:
- Mild cases often improve within 4–6 weeks with rest, activity modification, and physiotherapy.
- Moderate to severe cases may persist for several months, especially if nerve compression continues.
- Early diagnosis and adherence to conservative treatment generally improve recovery time and reduce the risk of long-term symptoms.
How do I know I need surgery?
Surgery is considered when conservative treatments fail or there are serious symptoms. You may need surgery if:
- Pain, numbness, or weakness persists despite physiotherapy, medications, or injections.
- There is progressive muscle weakness or loss of function in the arms or hands.
- Conservative management is unable to control severe pain or prevent nerve deterioration.
A spine or orthopaedic specialist will assess imaging, symptoms, and overall health to determine if surgery is necessary.
Are there any warning signs?
Seek medical attention promptly if you notice:
- Sudden or worsening weakness in the arms or hands
- Loss of sensation or numbness that spreads down the arm
- Loss of coordination or fine motor skills
- Severe pain that does not improve with rest
- Rarely, symptoms like difficulty walking or bladder/bowel issues, which require urgent evaluation
Early recognition of warning signs helps prevent permanent nerve damage.
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