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What is cervical radiculopathy?

Cervical radiculopathy is the term used to describe a pinched nerve in your neck region (cervical spine) that affects the nerves that travel to your arms, shoulders and hands. The nerve root gets compressed and this often leads to inflammation, with shooting pain radiating down your arm. However, sometimes no pain is felt - just pins and needles, weakness and numbness in the limb.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What are the symptoms of cervical radiculopathy?

Symptoms of cervical radiculopathy can include: tingling and weakness in your arm, neck, shoulder and upper back; sharp nerve pain that radiates down your arm or to your fingers; pain and stiffness in your neck; pain that originates in your …

What causes cervical radiculopathy?

One of the most common causes of cervical radiculopathy is disc herniation. This puts pressure on the spinal nerve root, causing inflammation, pain, weakness or numbness. Other causes can be tumors, obesity, trauma, arthritis, poor posture, repetitive …

How is cervical radiculopathy diagnosed?

to diagnose cervical radiculopathy, your doctor will examine you, take a full medical history then perform a physical examination to check if you have nerve compression. You may also be sent for X-rays, MRI or CT scans, or an electrical nerve …

What increases the chances of developing cervical radiculopathy?

There are several risk factors for cervical radiculopathy to be aware of: previous injury to your neck or spine; arthritis; obesity; repetitive movements and carrying heavy weights, and; poor posture.

How is cervical radiculopathy treated?

Cervical radiculopathy is treated with medications such as ibuprofen, oral corticosteroids and steroid injections. Physiotherapy and heat packs or ice packs can all be useful. Surgery is only considered if all else fails.

Will cervical radiculopathy clear on its own?

Some cases of cervical radiculopathy will resolve within a few weeks with treatment. Other cases, in particular those caused by degenerative changes in your intervertebral discs, may need ongoing management.

What can be done at home to treat cervical radiculopathy?

Home care for cervical radiculopathy can include ice packs or heat packs to provide immediate relief from some types of pain - experiment to see which works for you. Ice packs should not be placed directly on your skin, as they may …

Can cervical radiculopathy be prevented?

Most cases of cervical radiculopathy cannot be prevented, but you can try to avoid situations that may cause damage to your neck. Use safety gear if doing sports where you may suffer a blunt impact. Invest in a good pillow and avoid activities that …

What is the outlook for cervical radiculopathy?

The outlook for most cases of cervical radiculopathy is good. Using self-care techniques, medications and keeping as physically healthy as possible will help keep symptoms at bay. Physical therapies such as stretching will help keep your …

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About this article

Author: Kellie Heywood
First answered: 13 Oct 2014
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 4.2 out of 5
Votes: 222 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Carpal tunnel syndrome

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