Understanding the Causes and Treatment of Cervical Radiculopathy

If you've ever experienced sharp, radiating pain from your neck down into your shoulder, arm, or even your fingers, you might be dealing with cervical radiculopathy. Often referred to as a "pinched nerve," this condition can cause discomfort, weakness, and numbness that affects your daily life. Understanding what cervical radiculopathy is, its causes, and the available treatments can help you find relief and regain function.

What Is Cervical Radiculopathy?

Cervical radiculopathy occurs when a nerve in the neck (cervical spine) becomes compressed or irritated as it exits the spinal column. This nerve compression can lead to pain that radiates from the neck into the shoulder, arm, hand, or fingers, depending on which nerve is affected. In addition to pain, cervical radiculopathy may cause symptoms like numbness, tingling, or weakness in the affected areas.

Common Causes of Cervical Radiculopathy

Several factors can contribute to the development of cervical radiculopathy:

1. Degenerative Disc Disease and Disc Bulges

   As we age, the discs in our spine can lose their elasticity leading to disc degeneration. A herniated disc occurs when the soft, gel-like center of a spinal disc (think like a Fruit Pastille sweet) pushes through a crack in the tougher exterior, compressing a nearby nerve root. In the cervical spine, this often leads to radiating pain and other symptoms associated with cervical radiculopathy. 

2. Bone Spurs (Osteophytes)

   Bone spurs, or osteophytes, can develop on the vertebrae due to arthritis or spinal degeneration. These bony growths can narrow the space where the nerves exit the spinal column, causing compression and symptoms of radiculopathy.

3. Spinal Stenosis

   Spinal stenosis refers to the narrowing of the spaces within the spine, which can place pressure on the nerves. Cervical spinal stenosis can result from age-related changes, such as thickened ligaments or bone spurs, leading to nerve compression.

4. Trauma 

   Trauma to the neck, such as whiplash or a sports injury, can cause immediate or delayed nerve compression. These injuries may result in cervical radiculopathy if they cause damage to the vertebrae, discs, or surrounding tissues.

Symptoms of Cervical Radiculopathy

The symptoms of cervical radiculopathy can vary depending on the specific nerve root affected. Common symptoms include:

• Radiating Neck Pain: Pain that starts in the neck and travels down the shoulder, arm, or hand.

• Numbness or Tingling: A "pins and needles" sensation, often felt in the shoulder, arm, or fingers.

• Weakness: Reduced strength in the arm, shoulder, or hand, which may affect grip or coordination.

• Reduction of Reflexes: Reduced reflexes in the arm or hand can occur in more severe cases.

• Altered Sensation: Some individuals may feel a burning, stabbing, or electrical shock-like pain.

Diagnosing Cervical Radiculopathy

Our team of Chartered Physiotherapists will help to diagnose a cervical radiculopathy through your medical history, physical examination of your neck and upper body and if needed through imaging studies e.g. MRI

Treatment Options for Cervical Radiculopathy

Fortunately, most cases of cervical radiculopathy can be managed with conservative treatments that aim to relieve pain and improve function. Here are some of the most effective treatment options:

1. Physiotherapy 

   Physiotherapy is a cornerstone in the treatment of cervical radiculopathy. A physiotherapist will design a personalized program that may include:

   • Manual Therapy e.g. joint mobilisation, soft tissue massage. 

   • Strengthening exercises 

   • Nerve Gliding Exercises to mobilise and desensitise the nerve. 

2. Pain Management

   Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen may help manage pain and reduce inflammation. In more severe cases, a doctor may prescribe stronger medications or corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation around the affected nerve.

3. Reformer Pilates

   Pilates, particularly Reformer Pilates, can be an effective complementary therapy for cervical radiculopathy. Reformer exercises focus on core strength, alignment, and controlled movements, which help improve posture and muscle balance around the neck and shoulders, reducing stress on the cervical spine. The low-impact nature of Reformer Pilates allows for strengthening without placing excessive strain on the neck.

4. Surgery  

   In rare cases, if conservative treatments do not provide relief after several months, or if there is severe nerve compression leading to significant weakness or loss of function, surgical intervention may be considered.

Cervical radiculopathy can be a painful and disruptive condition, but with the right understanding and approach to treatment, most people can find significant relief. At Platinum Pilates, our team of Chartered Physiotherapists can help you manage conditions like cervical radiculopathy. Reach out to us today to book your initial assessment and get started on your management plan.