Cervical Radiculopathy
(Pinched Nerve)
A Real Pain in the Neck
Commonly known as a "pinched nerve," cervical radiculopathy occurs when a nerve in the neck is compressed or irritated at the point where it branches off from the spinal cord. This can result in pain radiating into the shoulder and arm, as well as symptoms like muscle weakness and numbness.
Causes
- Degenerative Changes to the cervical area of the spine
- Sudden Injury where the neck is forcefully hyper-flexed or hyper-extended.
- Poor Sleeping Posture
Treatment
Most often cervical radiculopathy responds well to conservative treatments
- Rest
- Ice and Heat
- Anti-Inflammatory Medications
- Physical Therapy
You can read more information about this condition on the AAOS website.
