Cervical Radiculopathy
Cervical radiculopathy is the term used to describe radiating nerve pain that begins in the neck region and runs down the shoulder, arm, forearm or into the hand and is associated with a neurologic deficit such as numbness or weakness.
Cervical Radiculopathy
Cervical Radiculopathy Causes
Potential causes of cervical radiculopathy arm pain include:
- Bone Spur
- Bulging Disc
- Fractured Vertebra
- Herniated Disc
- Sarcoidosis
- Spinal Degeneration
- Spinal Infection
- Sports Injury
- Tumor
Any of the conditions in the list above can cause a damaged, inflamed, or pinched nerve that results in pain or reduced sensation. When you start noticing these symptoms, schedule an appointment with an orthopedic specialist to assess your condition and properly identify the problem. The Spine Institute at Chatham Orthopaedic Associates, with clinics in Savannah, Pooler, Richmond Hill, and Effinghan, has a team of surgeons, physicians, physical therapists, and other medical experts who work together to diagnose a patient’s condition and customize an effective course of treatment.
Typically, we are able to diagnose radiculopathy through research into a patient’s detailed medical history, along with a physical examination. Often, an MRI of the cervical spine is performed to determine what is causing the pain.
Cervical Radiculopathy Diagnosis
The diagnosis of radiculopathy is typically made by taking a detailed patient history alone. Physical examination can further clarify the diagnosis. However, an MRI of the cervical spine will often be required to confirm the actual cause of the radicular pain.
Cervical Radiculopathy Treatment Options
Often, patients with cervical radiculopathy will quickly improve with a few days of rest and oral anti-inflammatory medications. Muscle relaxant medications can sometimes be used for severe pain and muscle spasms. Cervical epidural steroid injection and/or nerve root blocks may also be utilized for severe pain or moderate pain that is no longer responding to other conservative measures. Surgical options, such as anterior cervical discectomy and fusion, disc arthroplasty or microscopic cervical foraminotomy may be recommended for patients who do not benefit from conservative treatments.
- Cervical Epidural Steroid Injection
- Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (Intervertebral Spacer)
- Artificial Cervical Disc Replacement (PCM)
- Cervical Posterior Foraminotomy
Don’t delay seeking help for arm pain, as it may become worse the longer you wait. Contact Chatham Orthopaedic Associates today to schedule an appointment and get yourself back on the road to recovery. For our patients’ convenience, we have clinic locations in Savannah, Rincon, Richmond Hill, and Pooler.
