 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.
To Find a Specialist
To find a physician board-certified
to conduct needle EMGs and NCSs click here: http://www.abemexam.org/
For More Information
American Chronic Pain Association:
www.theacpa.org
American Association of Orthopaedic
Surgeons: www.aaos.org
Congress of Neurological Surgeons:
www.neurosurgery.org
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