Cervical Radiculopathy

Most episodes of mild neck pain can be attributed to muscle strain or postural imbalance, and resolve within several weeks. In contrast, cervical radiculopathy can be chronic in nature and sometimes recalcitrant to treatment.

Cervical radiculopathy or “pinched nerve” refers to irritation or inflammation of one of the cervical nerve roots. Although the problem originates in the nerve root, the pain radiates away from the source, causing painful symptoms in the shoulder, arm, or hand. In addition neck pain and headaches in the back of the head are common with this condition. The number of nerve roots affected can vary, and symptoms may present on one or both sides of the body.

Spine disorders that contribute to the development of cervical radiculopathy include:

 

Symptoms

Depending upon the extent of nerve irritation or injury, symptoms may vary. The most common symptom is pain that starts in your neck and travels down to your arm(s). Other symptoms include:

  • Pain ranging from dull ache to sharp or searing
  • Numbness, tingling, hyper/hypo-sensitivity to touch
  • Headaches in the back of your head (i.e. occipital headaches)
  • Muscle weakness 

 

Accurate Diagnosis Essential

After obtaining your medical history, Doctor Frazier opens up discussion by asking you questions about your symptoms, when symptoms started, treatments tried, hereditary disorders, existing conditions, and lifestyle.

During the physical and neurological examinations, Dr. Frazier examines your neck, shoulders, and arms. He evaluates your strength and sensation, as well as tests your reflexes. Dr. Frazier may also ask you do certain neck and arm movements to assess your sensory and motor limitations. He reviews possible loss of arm or leg reflexes, muscle weakness, loss of feeling and/or abnormal sensations such as numbness or tingling.

Dr. Frazier may order diagnostic studies including:

  • X-rays of your neck to check for narrowing of the spinal column and/or damage to discs
  • CT scan to check for bone spurs
  • MRI to determine if the compression is caused by herniated disc

 

Non-surgical Treatment

Many people with cervical radiculopathy will recover in a matter of weeks; others may take longer. In cases where conservative treatment fails and symptoms such as muscle weakness persist, further evaluation may be required. Conservative care targets relief of symptoms. Interventions include:

  • Soft collar to limit neck motion
  • Physical therapy to improve posture, manage pain
  • Medications such as anti-inflammatories, oral corticosteroids, narcotics
  • Epidural steroid injection to reduce nerve inflammation

 

When Spine Surgery May Be Recommended

A surgical recommendation may be made after non-surgical treatments are exhausted or certain symptoms progress. Your individualized treatment plan is adjusted to ease symptoms, restore and maintain function, and to help you lead an active and productive life. Cervical radiculopathy may not always respond to conservative care. Surgery may be recommended in the presence of:

  • Unrelenting pain, symptoms recalcitrant to treatment
  • Muscle weakness indicating spinal cord compression

 

Surgical Treatment of Cervical Radiculopathy

If Dr. Frazier recommends spine surgery, he will carefully explain to you:

  • Why he recommends spine surgery
  • How surgery may be of benefit
  • Possible risks and complications
  • When (how soon) is surgical treatment needed
  • Procedure name and type
  • How to prepare for surgery
  • Surgery aftercare and recovery

Generally, cervical radiculopathy caused by herniated disc or bone spurs is treated with anterior cervical fusion. Following the surgery, you may be required to wear a neck brace for up to 12 weeks.

Understanding your condition and the expected surgical outcome is essential to making an informed treatment decision.  Dr. Frazier and his professional staff have a deep commitment to patient education and welcome all questions.