What is acute nerve root pain of the neck?
Acute nerve root pain of the neck occurs when a nerve coming from the spinal cord gets compressed. Compression of a nerve in the neck commonly causes referred pain in the arm. Physiotherapy is an excellent way to treat acute nerve root pain of the neck.
Above: Mobilisations of the cervical vertebrea to relieve nerve impingement
What causes nerve root pain in the neck?
The most common neck injuries the physiotherapists at Physio.co.uk see are:
- Irritation of discs in the neck
- The presence of osteophytes (bony outgrowths)
- Inflammation of the structures in the neck
Above: Passive stretch of the muscles and connective tissues in the neck
All these cause the nerves to be compressed as they exit the spinal column.
What are symptoms of nerve root pain of the neck?
Acute nerve root compression can cause the following effects:
- reduced range of movement
- swelling/inflammation
- stiffness
- weakness
- spasm
- tingling / pins and needles
Above: Soft tissue massage of the muscle and connective tissues in the neck to relieve pain and aching
Physiotherapy for nerve root pain in the neck
The assistance of a physiotherapist is very important in the treatment of acute nerve root pain. Physio.co.uk will diagnose your problem and determine its severity. This will enable your physiotherapist to design you an appropriate treatment plan. This may initially involve techniques to reduce your pain. Other treatments may include:
- Electrotherapy
- Manipulation / Mobilisation
- Exercise Programmes
- Massage
- Ergonomic Assessment
- Proprioceptive Exercise
Can Nerve Root Pain of the Neck cause any long-term effects?
As long as it is properly diagnosed and appropriately treated with the correct physiotherapy acute nerve root pain does not usually produce any long-term effects. Recovery usually takes place in a matter of weeks. However, in some serious cases, or those managed incorrectly recovery may take much longer.
Above: Experienced Physiotherapist conducting an assessment of the cervical spine, muscles and connective tissues in the neck
Please call Physio.co.uk today on 0330 088 7800 or book online to arrange an appointment.