Cervical Radiculopathy

What is Cervical Radiculopathy?
Cervical refers to the neck region. Nerve roots exit the neck to enter the arms, skin and muscles of the neck, and some of the breathing muscles. If one of these roots is inflamed or injured in the area where it leaves the spine, it is called a radiculopathy. Cervical radiculopathy is when an injured nerve in the cervical spine causes pain, numbness or weakness because it is injured or diseased.

What Causes Cervical Radiculopathy?

Most often a cervical root is injured or inflamed by a mechanical cause, such as a herniated disc (when a disc moves from its place), bone spur, arthritis, injury to the neck, or stretch injury. Occasionally, a medical condition that inflames nerve roots can cause similar symptoms and findings. This results in various degrees of numbness, tingling, pain, and / or weakness.

How is Cervical Radiculopathy Diagnosed?

Cervical radiculopathy is typically diagnosed by a physician performing a complete history and physical. The diagnosis can be supported by x-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRIs), computerized tomography (CTs), and EMG.

How is Cervical Radiculopathy Treated?  

Treatment most often includes medications for pain and for reducing inflammation. and physical therapy. In cases of refractory pain, steroid injections in the spine or at the level of the nerve root may help. In cases of significant weakness or refractory pain, surgery may be required.

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Last modified: 12/19/2009

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