Cervical Radiculopathy

What is cervical radiculopathy?

Cervical Radiculopathy occurs when a nerve root in the cervical spine becomes compressed or irritated. This can lead to a range of symptoms including neck pain, muscle weakness, and neurological issues such as numbness, tingling, or pins and needles that may radiate into the shoulder, arm, or hand.

What causes nerve root pain in the neck?

  • Irritation of discs in the neck
  • The presence of osteophytes (bony outgrowths)
  • Inflammation of the structures in the neck

Above: Passive stretch applied to trapezius muscle by therapist

What Causes Cervical Radiculopathy?

Cervical radiculopathy occurs when structural changes in the cervical spine lead to compression or irritation of a spinal nerve. This pressure disrupts normal nerve function and causes symptoms such as pain or numbness. Common causes of nerve compression include:

  • Disc
  • herniation
  • Acute injury
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Decreased disc height
  • Degenerative changes

Above: Stretches and mobilisations of the cerival spine, muscle and connective tissues in the neck

What Are the Symptoms of Cervical Radiculopathy?

Since the nerves in the neck supply the shoulders, arms, and hands, compression of these nerves can lead to symptoms that extend beyond the neck. People with cervical radiculopathy may experience:

  • Pain local to the neck
  • Pain in the shoulders and arms
  • Reduced range of movement
  • Weakness
  • Numbness
  • Pins and needles

Above: Soft tissue massage of the muscle and connective tissues in the neck

Physiotherapy for Cervical Radiculopathy

Physiotherapy is often highly effective in managing cervical radiculopathy. At Ace Physio Sports, your physiotherapist will conduct a thorough assessment to understand the severity and source of nerve compression. Based on this evaluation, a personalised treatment plan will be developed. Treatment may include:

  • Cold/heat therapy
  • Advice on correct positioning/position to relieve pain
  • Manipulation/mobilization
  • Acupuncture
  • Range of movement exercises
  • Stretching exercises
  • Strengthening exercises

Above: Experienced Physiotherapist conducting an assessment of the cervical spine, muscles and connective tissues in the neck

Can Cervical Radiculopathy Cause Any Long-Term Effects?

In most cases, cervical radiculopathy can be successfully managed with physiotherapy, leading to full recovery and a return to normal activity. However, in more persistent or severe cases, physiotherapy alone may not completely resolve the symptoms. In such instances, medical interventions like corticosteroid injections may be recommended to reduce inflammation and nerve irritation. If conservative treatments fail to provide relief, surgical options may be considered to relieve pressure on the affected nerve and restore function.

To arrange an appointment, please call +65 81535374 or visit acephysiosports.com.

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