Cervical radiculopathy refers to an injury near the root of a nerve that
results in pain at the end of the nerve, where sensation is felt. For
example, an injury to the vertebrae or discs in your neck (your cervical
vertebrae) could result in pain, numbness or weakness in your shoulder,
arm, wrist or hand.
Causes of Cervical Radiculopathy
Several conditions can put pressure on nerve roots in the neck. The most
common causes for cervical radiculopathy are spinal stenosis, in which
the space in the center of the vertebrae narrows and squeezes the spinal
column and nerve roots; herniated cervical disc, in which the outer layer
(annulus) of the disc cracks and causes the disc to protrude, putting
pressure on the corresponding nerve that exits the spinal column; and
degenerative disc disease, which can cause the disc to shrink and the
vertebrae to press against each other, pinching the nerve and/or forming
bony spurs.
Cervical Radiculopathy Symptoms
The most common symptoms are pain, numbness or weakness in your shoulder,
arm, wrist or hand.
Treatment for Cervical Radiculopathy
Initial treatment is usually conservative and aims to reduce the pain by
easing the pressure on the nerves. The treatment consists of three parts:
rest, medication and physical therapy.
If non-surgical or conservative treatments don't relieve your pain over
the course of 6 to 12 weeks, surgery may be an option.
*Please note that all physicians are listed in random order and search results are refreshed every hour to comply with Stark Law.
Related Testimonials
Spinal Interventional Procedure"Dr. Charlu is a great doctor and always explains everything to you. He is very caring."Provider: Balaji (Bobby) S Charlu MD
Spinal Interventional Procedure"Dr. Charlu helps me manage pain without taking pain medicine."Provider: Balaji (Bobby) S Charlu MD
Lumbar Decompression w/Fusion (anterior)"My care was beyond anything I expected. Just great!"Provider: Michael L Gordon MD
Lumbar Decompression w/Fusion (posterior)"Prior to surgery - every step was explained and the staff was excellent. Julie on Healthloop does a good job."Provider: Michael L Gordon MD
Lumbar Decompression w/Fusion (posterior)"Dr. Gordon is down to earth, makes everything perfectly clear prior to surgery, is patient and answers all questions. He confirmed everything with me in the hospital prior to surgery and his follow-ups are amazing. I couldn't possibly imagine a more cari"Provider: Michael L Gordon MD
Lumbar Decompression w/Fusion (posterior)"I feel Dr Gordon is very well qualified to takes care of my problem."Provider: Michael L Gordon MD
Lumbar Discectomy"All staff were knowledgeable, responsive, helpful, and thorough. Process was smooth and efficient. Thank you!"Provider: Michael L Gordon MD
Cervical Discectomy"All of the pain and discomfort that I was experiencing pre-surgery is GONE!"Provider: Richard S Lee MD
Cervical Discectomy"Dr. Lee was on point – the team there could not have been more helpful and compassionate."Provider: Richard S Lee MD
Cervical Discectomy"Dr. Lee is very knowledgeable and thorough. The nurses, staff, and surgery scheduler – Kim, is great!"Provider: Richard S Lee MD
Cervical Discectomy"I felt well-informed during the process. Having a surgery coordinator, Kim, to keep me aware of what to expect helped the process!"Provider: Richard S Lee MD
Cervical Discectomy"Dr. Lee is very professional. I felt very informed prior to my surgery."Provider: Richard S Lee MD
Patient Reviews are anonymous and provided through GetWell, a HIPAA compliant patient engagement tool.
Orthopedic SurgeryView Profile
