Cervical Radiculopathy Treatment Specialist Q&A

Cervical radiculopathy is a condition caused by compression or irritation of the nerve roots in the cervical spine, resulting in pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the neck, shoulder, arm, or hand. The effective treatment of cervical radiculopathy depends on the severity of the symptoms and the underlying cause of the condition. Mild to moderate cases of cervical radiculopathy can be managed conservatively with non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy, medications, and lifestyle modifications.

Physical therapy is a common treatment for cervical radiculopathy, as it can help relieve pain, improve mobility, and strengthen the neck and shoulder muscles. Manual therapy techniques such as joint mobilization, soft tissue mobilization, and nerve gliding exercises can help reduce compression on the affected nerve roots. Medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), muscle relaxants, and oral steroids can also be used to manage pain and inflammation. Lifestyle modifications such as maintaining good posture, avoiding prolonged sitting or standing, and using ergonomic tools can help prevent exacerbation of symptoms.

The team at Global Neuro & Spine Institute provides an extensive range of services for patients seeking relief from a variety of conditions.

Treatments include spinal cord stimulators, peripheral nerve stimulators, nerve and spine block treatments, joint injections, epidural steroid injections, and more. Whether patients are dealing with chronic pain or acute injuries, the team at Global Neuro & Spine Institute is committed to finding effective solutions that help patients regain their quality of life.

Cervical radiculopathy is typically caused by a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, or spondylosis. Other causes of cervical radiculopathy include trauma or injury to the neck, such as whiplash, car accidents, or sports-related injuries. In rare cases, infections, tumors, or autoimmune disorders can cause cervical radiculopathy. Risk factors for cervical radiculopathy include age, gender (males are more commonly affected), genetics, and certain occupations that require repetitive neck motions or prolonged sitting or standing.

Several factors can exacerbate the symptoms of cervical radiculopathy. One of the most common triggers is poor posture, especially prolonged sitting or standing in a forward head position. This posture can place increased pressure on the cervical spine, leading to compression of the nerve roots. Repetitive neck motions, such as twisting, turning, or bending the neck, can also aggravate cervical radiculopathy symptoms.

Other factors that can make cervical radiculopathy worse include obesity, smoking, lack of exercise, and stress. Obesity places extra strain on the spine and can lead to the development of conditions such as degenerative disc disease or spinal stenosis. Smoking can cause a reduction in blood flow to the spinal discs, leading to degeneration and an increased risk of herniated discs. Lack of exercise can weaken the muscles supporting the spine, leading to poor posture and increased risk of compression on the nerve roots.

Cervical radiculopathy can be a disabling condition for some individuals. This condition occurs when a nerve root in the cervical spine becomes compressed or damaged, causing pain, weakness, numbness, or tingling in the arm and hand. While many people with cervical radiculopathy experience mild to moderate symptoms that can be managed with conservative treatment, some individuals may experience severe symptoms that can impact their ability to work or perform daily activities.

The severity of cervical radiculopathy symptoms can vary from person to person. For some individuals, the symptoms may be so severe that they are unable to work or perform daily activities and may require long-term disability benefits. However, not everyone with cervical radiculopathy will be eligible for disability benefits. Eligibility for disability benefits will depend on various factors, including the severity of symptoms, the ability to work, and the type of job the individual has.

Cervical radiculopathy treatment is available at Global Neuro & Spine Institute. For more information, please contact us or book an appointment online. We serve patients from Orlando FL, Conway FL, Edgewood FL, Jensen Beach FL, Ocean Breeze FL, Rio FL, Malabar Palm Bay FL, Melbourne FL, Atlantis FL, Palm Springs FL, Boynton Beach FL, Fort Pierce FL, White City FL, St Lucie FL, Plantation FL, Pine Island Ridge FL, Lauderhill FL, Winter Park FL, Bertha FL, Alafaya FL and surrounding areas.