Cervical Radiculopathy is the damage in the nerve network resulting from one of the nerve roots near the cervical vertebrae being compressed.

Common causes of Cervical Radiculopathy:

  • Degenerative changes: In middle-aged people, normal degenerative changes in the discs can cause pressure on nerve roots. 
  • Injury: In younger people, cervical radiculopathy tends to be the result of a ruptured disc, perhaps as a result of trauma. 

Risk Factors for Cervical Radiculopathy:

Some of the risk factors for Cervical Radiculopathy are:

  • If you are white
  • Smoke cigarettes
  • Had a prior radiculopathy
  • Lift heavy items
  • Often dive into a pool from a diving board
  • Drive equipment that vibrates
  • Play golf

Symptoms:

Main symptoms are pain radiating from neck to shoulders, arms & hands.

There can also be Sensory issues, such as numbness or tingling in fingers or hands & Motor problems, such as muscle weakness, lack of coordination, or the loss of reflexes in your arms or legs.

Non-Surgical Treatment options for Cervical Radiculopathy:

  • Physical therapy: This might include gentle cervical traction and mobilization, exercises, and other modalities to reduce pain.
  • Medication: These may include corticosteroids or nonsteroidal pain medication like ibuprofen or naproxen.