Cervical Radiculopathy: Understanding the Symptoms, Causes, and Effective Non-Surgical Treatment Options in NYC
Do you feel a sharp, radiating pain from your neck into your shoulder, arm, or hand? If so, you might be experiencing cervical radiculopathy, often called a pinched nerve. This condition occurs when a nerve in the neck becomes compressed or inflamed, leading to symptoms like weakness, numbness, and discomfort.
Cervical radiculopathy is more common than you might think, affecting about 85 out of every 100,000 people annually. The good news is that early intervention often brings significant relief.
Dr. Sarah Gullans of Prestige Health & Wellness recommends a combination of our non-invasive treatments to improve symptoms and support long-term recovery.
Let’s explore how cervical radiculopathy can impact your daily life and the effective treatment options available here in NYC.
What is Cervical Radiculopathy?
Cervical radiculopathy, commonly referred to as a “pinched nerve,” is a medical condition characterized by pain, weakness, and/or numbness resulting from the compression or irritation of a cervical nerve root in the neck. This condition occurs when the nerve roots exiting the spinal cord in the cervical spine (neck region) become compressed or inflamed, leading to neurological symptoms that may radiate down the arm or shoulder, depending on the affected nerve root
Anatomy Involved in Cervical Radiculopathy
The cervical spine, or neck area, is made up of seven vertebrae (C1–C7) separated by discs. These discs act like cushions, helping the neck stay flexible and reducing pressure on the vertebrae.
The spinal cord runs through the center of these vertebrae, with nerves branching out through small openings called foramina. These nerves carry messages between your brain and the upper body, including your shoulders, arms, and hands.
Key anatomical structures involved include:
- Cervical Vertebrae (C1-C7): The bones of the neck that form the uppermost part of the spine.
- Intervertebral Discs: Fibrous discs located between vertebrae that can herniate or degenerate, causing nerve compression.
- Nerve Roots: These exit from the spinal cord at each cervical level (e.g., C5, C6) and are responsible for sensory and motor functions in specific regions of the arm and hand.
- Foramina: Openings in the vertebrae through which nerve roots pass; these can narrow due to bone spurs or disc degeneration, leading to compression.
Common Causes of Cervical Radiculopathy
Several factors can contribute to nerve compression or irritation in the cervical spine. Here are some of the most common causes:
- Herniated Discs: When the cushioning between vertebrae in the neck becomes damaged or ruptured, it can press on nearby nerves, leading to pain and other symptoms.
- Degenerative Disc Disease: Age-related wear and tear can result in disc and vertebrae changes that irritate the nerves.
- Spinal Stenosis: The narrowing of the spinal canal can compress nerves and lead to cervical radiculopathy.
- Injury: Trauma to the neck, such as whiplash or falls, can cause nerve compression or irritation.
Symptoms of Cervical Radiculopathy
Symptoms of cervical radiculopathy can vary in severity and location, depending on which nerve is affected. Typical symptoms include:
- Localized pain in the neck, which can be sharp or dull.
- Pain radiating from the neck down to the shoulder, arm, or hand
- Numbness or tingling in the fingers or hand
- Sharp, burning pain or muscle spasms in the neck, shoulder, or upper back
- Weakness in the arm or hand, making it difficult to perform everyday tasks
- Reduced reflexes in the affected arm or hand
- Limited neck movement, often worsened with certain movements
It’s important to note: it is possible to have cervical radiculopathy without neck pain. For example, C5 nerve pain typically presents in the shoulder and radiates down the front of the arm, often reaching below the elbow.
Treatment Options at Prestige Health & Wellness
Our facility in Manhattan, NYC, offers a range of non-invasive treatments to relieve pain and restore mobility:
- Chiropractic Care: Chiropractic care uses gentle spinal adjustments to help relieve pressure on affected nerve roots, reducing pain and improving mobility.
- Physical Therapy: Physical therapy includes tailored exercises and stretches to help strengthen neck muscles, improve posture, and increase flexibility.
- Massage Therapy: Therapeutic massage helps relieve muscle tension in the neck and upper back, improving circulation and reducing inflammation.
- Acupuncture: Stimulating specific acupuncture points can help reduce nerve pain, improve circulation, and promote healing in the cervical spine.
Self-Care and Prevention Tips
Managing cervical radiculopathy involves some lifestyle adjustments to help prevent recurring issues. Here are a few tips:
- Practice Proper Posture: Sit up straight, especially when using a computer or sitting for extended periods.
- Incorporate Stretches: Daily neck and shoulder stretches help improve flexibility and reduce stiffness.
- Avoid Excessive Neck Strain: Avoid activities that put unnecessary strain on the neck, such as heavy lifting or repetitive movements.
- Use Ergonomic Pillows and Mattresses: Support your neck during sleep to help maintain spinal alignment.
Ready to Find Relief?
If you’re struggling with neck pain, radiating discomfort, or weakness from cervical radiculopathy, help is available right here in Manhattan.
At Prestige Health & Wellness, we specialize in non-invasive therapies that address the root causes of your symptoms and restore your mobility. According to Dr. Sarah Gullans, “Many patients benefit from a blend of chiropractic care and physical therapy to relieve symptoms and improve long-term function.”
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Gullans or another member of our talented staff today to start your personalized treatment plan. We’re here to help you feel better, live pain-free, and get back to enjoying life. Reach out now to take the first step toward lasting relief!
Sources
Caridi, J. M., Pumberger, M., & Hughes, A. P. (2011). Cervical radiculopathy: A review. HSS J, 7(3), 265–272. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11420-011-9218-z
Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Cervical radiculopathy (pinched nerve). https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22639-cervical-radiculopathy-pinched-nerve
Harrow-Mortelliti, M., Reddy, V., & Jimsheleishvili, G. (2023, March 17). Physiology, spinal cord. In StatPearls [Internet]. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK544267/
Magnus, W., Viswanath, O., Viswanathan, V. K., et al. (2024, January 31). Cervical radiculopathy. In StatPearls [Internet]. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441828/
Morasso, J. V., & Ho, S. S. W. (2024, January 18). Cervical radiculopathy. Medscape. https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/94118-overview