Cervical Radiculopathy/Herniated Disc(Pinched nerve)
Pain in the neck that radiates to the shoulder, arm, or hand often times is caused by an irritation
or injury to the nerves at the level of the spinal root near the neck. As vertebral disks age, they lose height and may begin to bulge or herniate.
Causes & Symptoms
Spondylosis is arthritis of the neck and occurs with age. It is important
to keep in mind that all these changes are "normal" and they occur in everyone.
Though they are found in all people it is not known why some people have symptoms
while others do not.
Pain from cervical radiculopathy travels down the arm in the area of the involved nerve.
It can occasionally cause weakness. Pain is usually described as sleeping, cramping, numbness,
sharp, or pins and needles.
Evaluation & Treatment
Evaluation includes a detailed history and examination. Special maneuvers
including strength, sensation, and reflexes testing are done. X-rays are evaluated
to check the alignment of the bones. An MRI may be ordered to evaluate disk bulges
and nerve root or spinal cord compression. In some cases electromyography and nerve
conduction studies may be ordered evaluate the nerves further.
A majority of patients with cervical radiculopathy get better with time, medication,
and physical therapy. Occasionally those with MRI findings that do not improve may benefit
from spinal injections.
In those who do not find relief with the above treatment and who have MRI findings,
surgical treatment may be recommended. Recovery from spinal surgery depends on the procedure
performed and typically takes several months.