Cervical radiculopathy occurs when a nerve in the neck becomes irritated or compressed where it exits the spinal cord. This pressure can cause pain, numbness, or weakness that travels from the neck into the shoulder, arm, hand, and fingers.
Symptoms of Cervical Radiculopathy
Symptoms can vary depending on which nerve is affected. Common signs include:
- Neck pain or stiffness
- Burning or aching in the neck or upper back
- Sharp, electric shock-like pain traveling down the arm
- Numbness or tingling in the shoulder, arm, hand, or fingers
- Muscle weakness in the arm or hand
- Decreased coordination or grip strength
- Reduced reflexes
In many cases, patients notice that symptoms worsen with certain neck movements or prolonged positions.
Common Causes of Cervical Radiculopathy
Several conditions and injuries can lead to a pinched nerve in the neck, including:
- Acute injury or trauma, such as whiplash or auto accidents
- Heavy lifting or twisting, causing strain and inflammation
- Herniated or bulging discs in the cervical spine
- Degenerative disc disease, leading to reduced disc height and nerve compression
- Spinal stenosis, or narrowing of the spinal canal
- Bone spurs from arthritis, which may irritate nearby nerves
- Repetitive motion or posture stress, such as prolonged driving or looking down at devices
The location of the affected nerve determines where symptoms travel, including the shoulder, upper arm, forearm, hand, or fingers.
Treatment for Cervical Radiculopathy
The main goals of treatment are to reduce nerve irritation, decrease inflammation, restore normal motion, and relieve pain.
Because every case is different, treatment is based on a detailed examination and diagnosis.
Acute Phase Care
During the initial phase, the focus is on reducing pain and inflammation while protecting the affected nerve.
Treatment may include:
- Gentle cervical traction
- Chiropractic adjustments to surrounding spinal segments
- Muscle relaxation and stabilization techniques
- Homeopathic or regenerative injection therapies
In some cases, short-term NSAIDs may be used for pain relief. However, long-term use may slow healing, so they should be used in moderation.
At Alta Mountain Chiropractic, we also offer natural treatment options designed to support healing, including:
- Nutritional supplements
- Prolozone therapy
- Homeopathic injections
Chiropractic Care and Decompression
Chiropractic adjustments, spinal manipulation, and decompression therapy may help:
- Improve neck mobility
- Reduce nerve pressure
- Decrease muscle spasms
- Improve overall spinal function
As movement improves, nerve irritation often decreases, which can help reduce radiating arm pain.
Exercise and Rehabilitation
Once pain and inflammation begin to improve, patients are often given simple exercises to perform at home.
These exercises help:
- Improve range of motion
- Stretch tight muscles
- Strengthen the neck and upper back
- Support long-term spinal stability
Exercises should always be done within a pain-free range.
Ice, Heat, and Daily Care
If symptoms begin after an injury, ice may be helpful during the first 48 hours to reduce severe pain and inflammation.
After that, heat therapy may help relax muscles, improve circulation, and reduce stiffness when used for about 15 minutes at a time.
Additional Supportive Therapies
Additional treatment options may include:
- Massage therapy to reduce muscle tension and improve flexibility
- Cervical pillows to support proper neck alignment during sleep
- Home cervical traction units for guided decompression
- Gentle activity such as walking or biking to maintain circulation
When Imaging May Be Needed
X-rays or MRI imaging may or may not be necessary depending on your symptoms and exam findings.
During your initial visit, Dr. Nathan Eldredge will perform a thorough evaluation to determine if imaging is needed for proper diagnosis and treatment planning.
If you are suffering from cervical radiculopathy please give us a call at 801-523-2582 or schedule online (Click here) so that we can start helping you with this serious condition right away.
