Cervical Radiculopathy

What is Cervical Radiculopathy?

Cervical radiculopathy is a clinical condition characterized by radiating pain from the neck to the shoulder, arm, or hand as a result of damage to or irritation of a nerve root in the cervical spine. This happens most frequently from a herniated disc or bone spur that presses on the nerve root as it exits the spinal column. The pain may be accompanied by numbness, tingling, or weakness. Often called a "pinched nerve," this condition most commonly affects people in their 50s and 60s, though it can occur at any age.

Symptoms

Diagnosis

Diagnostic procedures include: • Neurological examination to test reflexes, sensation, and muscle strength • Spurling's test to reproduce symptoms • X-rays to check for bone spurs or alignment issues • MRI to visualize soft tissues, discs, and nerve compression • CT scan with or without myelogram for detailed bone images • Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies • Assessment of symptom pattern and distribution

Treatment

Treatment may include: • Rest and activity modification • Physical therapy focusing on neck and shoulder strengthening • Cervical traction to relieve pressure on nerve roots • NSAIDs and pain medications • Oral corticosteroids to reduce inflammation • Muscle relaxants for muscle spasms • Epidural steroid injections for persistent symptoms • Cervical collar for short-term use • Surgery (anterior cervical discectomy and fusion, artificial disc replacement) for severe cases • Nerve root blocks for diagnosis and treatment