Cervical Radiculopathies

What are Cervical Radiculopathies?

Cervical radiculopathies, often referred to as a "pinched nerve," occur when a nerve in the neck is compressed or irritated as it exits the spinal cord. This condition leads to pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness that radiates from the neck into the shoulders, arms, or hands. While it can affect people of all ages, cervical radiculopathy is more common in middle-aged adults due to age-related changes in the spine or in younger individuals following a neck injury.

Types of Cervical Radiculopathies

Cervical radiculopathies are classified based on their underlying causes and location within the cervical spine:

Degenerative Causes:

• Herniated Disc: A common cause in younger adults, where the cushion-like disc between vertebrae bulges or ruptures, compressing a nearby nerve.

• Cervical Spondylosis: Age-related wear and tear of the spine, leading to bone spurs and narrowing of the nerve passageways (foramina).

• Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal or foramina, compressing the nerve roots.

Traumatic Causes:

• Injury: Trauma to the neck, such as whiplash, can cause inflammation, misalignment, or disc damage that affects the nerves.

Systemic or Rare Causes:

• Infections: Such as shingles, which can inflame the nerve roots in the cervical spine.

• Tumours: Rarely, abnormal growths within or near the spine can compress cervical nerves.

• Autoimmune Conditions: Diseases like rheumatoid arthritis may contribute to cervical radiculopathy.

Symptoms of Cervical Radiculopathies

The symptoms of cervical radiculopathies depend on the specific nerve affected and the severity of compression. Common symptoms include:

• Radiating Pain: Sharp or burning pain that travels from the neck to the shoulder, arm, or hand.

• Numbness or Tingling: Often felt in the fingers or along specific areas of the arm, corresponding to the affected nerve root.

• Muscle Weakness: Difficulty gripping objects or performing fine motor tasks, such as buttoning a shirt.

• Neck Stiffness: Pain that worsens with neck movements, such as turning or tilting the head.

• Reflex Changes: Altered or diminished reflexes in the arms or hands.

Warning Signs: Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Severe, worsening pain that does not improve with rest or conservative treatment.

• Weakness or loss of sensation in multiple limbs.

• Loss of bladder or bowel control, which may indicate a more serious spinal condition.

Diagnosis and Treatment Options

Diagnosis: A thorough evaluation is crucial to pinpoint the cause and severity of cervical radiculopathy. Diagnostic steps may include:

• Medical History and Physical Examination: To assess symptoms, reflexes, and muscle strength.

• Imaging Studies: MRI or CT scans to visualise nerve compression, herniated discs, or bone spurs.

• Nerve Conduction Studies: To test the function of the affected nerve and identify areas of damage.

• X-rays: To assess alignment and detect signs of arthritis or bone abnormalities.

Treatment Options: The treatment for cervical radiculopathies aims to relieve pain, reduce nerve compression, and restore function. Options include:

• Lifestyle Modifications:

  • Avoid activities that exacerbate neck strain, such as heavy lifting or prolonged computer use.

  • Use ergonomic equipment to maintain proper neck posture.

• Medications:

  • Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or paracetamol, for mild symptoms.

  • Prescription medications, including muscle relaxants or nerve pain relievers like gabapentin.

  • Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation around the affected nerve.

• Physical Therapy:

  • Targeted exercises to strengthen neck and shoulder muscles, improve posture, and reduce nerve irritation.

  • Manual therapy or cervical traction to relieve pressure on the nerve roots.

• Surgical Interventions:

  • Recommended for severe cases where conservative treatments fail.

  • Procedures such as discectomy, laminectomy, or spinal fusion aim to decompress the affected nerve and stabilise the spine.

• Alternative Therapies:

  • Acupuncture or chiropractic adjustments for additional symptom relief.

  • Yoga or mindfulness-based exercises to manage chronic pain and improve neck flexibility.

Conclusion

Cervical radiculopathies can significantly impact daily activities, causing pain and functional limitations. Early diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan are essential for effective recovery and to prevent further complications. At Singapore Brain Spine Nerves Center, we specialise in diagnosing and managing cervical radiculopathies, offering personalised care to help you regain comfort and mobility. If you are experiencing persistent neck or arm pain, numbness, or weakness, contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards relief.