We’ve recently seen a few patients with neck pain that radiates down the arm, and each of those patients was lost as to what was happening to them. This is why we’re here to share some insights on cervical radiculopathy (or « trapped nerve ») - a condition people vaguely know about, but rarely understand in depth.
Cervical radiculopathy (hard to pronounce, I know!) typically presents as a sharp or burning pain travelling from your neck into your shoulder, arm or hand. Patients often find it difficult to pin point the source of the pain as it affects such a widespread area.
Understanding the possible causes is an important first step towards finding the right approach to treatment. So, let’s take a closer look.
What is cervical radiculopathy?
Cervical radiculopathy occurs when a nerve root leaving the cervical spine becomes irritated, inflamed or compressed. Because the nerves from the neck supply the shoulder, arm and hand, irritation of a nerve root in the neck can cause symptoms further down the arm.
How common is it?
Cervical radiculopathy is relatively uncommon compared with ordinary neck pain. This is one of the reasons why you might have never heard of it. Studies suggest that approximately 0.1–0.6% of people may have cervical radiculopathy at any given time.
What causes cervical radiculopathy?
There isn't always one straightforward cause. During an osteopathic assessment, we look at the different factors that could be contributing to your symptoms:
Disc herniation
The discs between the vertebrae that act as cushions occasionally protrude and irritate a nearby nerve root. This tends to be a common cause in younger adults.
Age-related changes
As we age, the discs and vertebrae of the neck naturally change. Loss of disc height, arthritis and small bony growths called osteophytes can reduce the space around a nerve root and subsequently irritate the nerves going down your arm.
A combination of factors
Often, there isn't one single cause. Disc changes, joint irritation, inflammation and increased sensitivity of the nervous system can all contribute to symptoms.
How can osteopathy help?
We’d like to reassure you that not all cervical radiculopathy requires surgical intervention. In fact, most cases are successfully treated with osteopathic treatment.
Gentle manual therapy helps patients regain movement after guarding the neck area. It helps reduce muscle tension, improve movement and help manage pain around the neck, upper back and shoulder.
We typically take you through some exercises designed to improve the mobility and tolerance of the nerves. We also encourage our patients to practice strengthening exercises of the upper body, as tolerated, to avoid losing muscle function and muscle mass.
As mentioned above, cervical radiculopathy involves mechanical compression, inflammation and nerve sensitivity, so treatment aims to address those issues.
When should you see a doctor?
Because cervical radiculopathy involves the nervous system, certain symptoms require medical assessment. After a thorough assessment, we will advise you on the next steps to take. We particularly value collaborative work with doctors and neurologists when patients present with a cervical radiculopathy.
Are you Experiencing pain from your neck into your arm?
At Osteo Jura, we first assess your symptoms to determine whether they are appropriate for osteopathic care. We can then work with you to reduce pain, restore movement and gradually return you to your normal activities.
If you're experiencing symptoms that could be related to cervical radiculopathy, get in touch with Osteo Jura to book an assessment. Together, we can work towards reducing your pain, restoring your movement and getting you back to your day-to-day activities.
