What is Cervical Radiculopathy?
Cervical radiculopathy is pain resulting from the nerve root being pinched or compressed by a disc bulges or herniations (slipped disc or ruptured disc), bone spurs, canal narrowing (spinal stenosis) or in rare instances mass effect from another causes (cysts, tumors, or infections). The cervical nerve root becomes irritated, swollen and inflamed which result in the presenting symptoms and pain.
What are the Symptoms of Cervical Radiculopathy?
The symptoms of Cervical Radiculoapthy may include pain, tingling, numbness and/or weakness from the neck extending down in to the arm and all the way in the hands. The pain is usually burning in nature and can radiate down from the buttock area all the way down to the foot. There may also be tingling or frank numbness(such as difficulty lifting the arm or hand, or dropping things) in a similar distribution as the pain in the leg.
How is Cervical Radiculopathy Diagnosed?
A complete history and physical exam along with diagnostic tests will help to confirm the diagnosis of lumbar radiculopathy. Diagnositic tests may include imaging studies (x-ray, CT, MRI), diagnostic injections (selective nerve root blocks, discograms), and Electrodiagnositic Studies (EMG/NCS).
What is the Treatment for Cervical Radiculopathy?
The goal of treatment for cervical radiculopathy is to effectively diagnose the cause and provide targeted treatment to relieve the pressure and inflammation about the irritated and inflammed nerve root, along with helping to prevent reinjury in the future. Treatment will usually consist of a combination of physical therapy and modalities, traction, medications and Cervical Epidural Steroid Injections. If conservative care does not provide only partial relief, Surgical Procedures may be indicated to prevent permanent nerve injury.
Our Fellowship Trained and Board Certified Pain Management Physicians will guide you through the treatment of your neck pain. Our goal is to help you get your life back so you can enjoy life to the fullest.
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