Cervical Radiculopathy: Meaning, Diagnosis and Overview

What is Cervical Radiculopathy?

Cervical radiculopathy often called as a pinched nerve is the damage or disturbance of nerve function that results if one of the nerve roots near the cervical vertebrae is compressed.
Cervical radiculopathy is a painful condition in which a nerve becomes pinched as it leaves the spinal cord. The pinched nerve is compressed by either herniated disc material or by degenerative bony spurs arising from the neck.

Recovery Time

The amount of time it takes for a pinched nerve to completely heal depends on the amount of damage done to the nerve. Because the nerve heals from the top down, it could take from weeks to months to completely heal.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis begins with a complete history of the problem and physical examination. Other tests which may be recommended include:

• X-rays
• MRI/ CT scan
• Electromyography (EMG) test
• Cervical root stimulation (CRS)

FAQs prepared by doctor

Q1.  What is cervical radiculopathy?
Cervical radiculopathy often called as a pinched nerve is the damage or disturbance of nerve function that results if one of the nerve roots near the cervical vertebrae is compressed. Cervical radiculopathy is a painful condition in which a nerve becomes pinched as it leaves the spinal cord. The pinched nerve is compressed by either herniated disc material or by degenerative bony spurs arising from the neck.

Q2.  What are the symptoms of cervical radiculopathy?
The main symptom of cervical radiculopathy is pain that spreads into the arm, neck, chest, upper back and/or shoulders and this pain may be dull, severe burning or sharp pain. Other symptoms include:
Muscle weakness and/or numbness or tingling in fingers or hands, Lack of coordination, especially in the hands, Headaches.

Q3.  What to do if one is suffering from this condition?
One should take rest and use brace or splint to immobilize the injured body part. To ease the pain, swelling, and increase blood circulation you can use ice and heat on the area of pinched nerve. Apply ice 3 to 4 times within 15 minutes to reduce inflammation. After icing, use hot water bottle or heat pad to increase blood flow which in turn speeds up the healing process. A massage is also very helpful.

Q4.  When shall one visit doctor?
If one suffers from severe pain, numbness, tingling sensation, weakness and headache, then one shall meet a doctor as early as possible.

Q5.  What shall be done to avoid such condition?
One shall decrease the proneness to such risk factors which increase the pain. Maintain healthy weight and good posture while sitting or standing. While doing heavy repetitive works one should take healthy breaks.