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What is cervical radiculopathy?
Cervical radiculopathy occurs when there is an impingement of a nerve in the neck. This can cause pain, weakness and neurological symptoms such as numbness or pins and needles.
Above: Passive stretch applied to trapezius muscle by therapistWhat causes cervical radiculopathy?
Cervical radiculopathy is caused by a change in the structure of the cervical spine (neck) which creates compression of a nerve. This compression causes symptoms. Causes of this compression include:
- Disc herniation
- Acute injury
- Osteoarthritis
- Decreased disc height
- Degenerative changes
Above: Stretches and mobilisations of the cerival spine, muscle and connective tissues in the neckWhat are the symptoms of cervical radiculopathy?
Symptoms of cervical radiculopathy can spread into the shoulders and arms as the nerves at the neck innervate the shoulders and arms. Symptoms include:
- Pain local to the neck
- Pain in the shoulders and arms
- Reduced range of movement
- Weakness
- Numbness
- Pins and needles
Above: Soft tissue massage of the muscle and connective tissues in the neckPhysiotherapy for cervical radiculopathy
Physiotherapy can be very effective in treating cervical radiculopathy. At Physio.co.uk your physiotherapist will assess your neck and provide individualised treatment. Treatment may include:
- Cold/heat therapy
- Advice on correct positioning/position to relieve pain
- Manipulation/mobilization
- Acupuncture
- Range of movement exercises
- Stretching exercises
- Strengthening exercises
Above: Experienced Physiotherapist conducting an assessment of the cervical spine, muscles and connective tissues in the neckCan cervical radiculopathy cause any long-term effects?
Physiotherapy can resolve symptoms in most cases and a full recovery can be made. In some cases physiotherapy may not be able to fully resolve the problem. In these instances injections can be used to treat the problem. If these are not successful either then surgery is considered.
To arrange an assessment with Physio.co.uk please contact us or call 0330 088 7800.
