Cervical Radiculopathy

Written By Heather Fox

Cervical radiculopathy happens when a nerve in the neck (cervical spine) becomes irritated, inflamed, or compressed. This often causes symptoms that travel from the neck into the shoulder, arm, or hand.

People commonly call it a “pinched nerve” in the neck.

Common Causes

  • Herniated or bulging cervical disc

  • Degenerative changes / arthritis in the neck

  • Foraminal stenosis (narrowing where the nerve exits)

  • Bone spurs

  • Poor posture or repetitive strain

  • Trauma or whiplash injuries

Common Symptoms

Symptoms depend on which nerve root is affected, but may include:

  • Neck pain or stiffness

  • Pain radiating into the shoulder or arm

  • Burning, tingling, or numbness

  • Weakness in the arm or hand

  • Symptoms worsening with certain neck positions

Frequently Affected Nerve Roots

Nerve Root Common Symptom Area

C5 Shoulder weakness pain

C6 Thumb numbness, biceps weakness

C7 Middle finger symptoms, triceps weakness

C8 Ring/pinky finger numbness, grip weakness

Typical Diagnosis

A healthcare provider may use:

  • Physical exam and neurological testing

  • Spurling’s test

  • MRI of the cervical spine

  • EMG/NCS in some cases

  • X-rays if degeneration or instability is suspected

Treatment Options

Most cases improve without surgery.

Conservative treatment may include:

  • Physical therapy

  • Postural correction

  • Activity modification

  • Cervical traction (when appropriate)

  • Anti-inflammatory medications

  • Heat/ice

  • Manual therapy

  • Epidural steroid injections in some cases

Exercises Often Used

These are commonly part of rehab programs when appropriate:

4

  • Chin tucks

  • Scapular stabilization

  • Gentle cervical mobility work

  • Nerve glides

  • Deep neck flexor strengthening

  • Thoracic mobility exercises

Red Flag Symptoms

Seek prompt medical attention if you have:

  • Progressive arm weakness

  • Loss of hand function

  • Problems with balance or walking

  • Loss of bowel/bladder control

  • Severe trauma

  • Fever, unexplained weight loss, or signs of infection

Heather Fox

Heather Fox, LMT, is a compassionate healer and seasoned bodywork professional with over a decade of experience helping chronic pain sufferers find relief and restoration. A certified Spinal Reflex Therapy provider trained in Manual Lymphatic Drainage, she is currently expanding her expertise through John Barnes’ Myofascial Release Unwinding training. Heather is the visionary founder of Awakening Healing Center, LLC. Deeply guided by her faith and intuitive wisdom, Heather brings a heart-centered, holistic approach to everything she does. She’s also an avid traveler, cat lover, and Spanish language learner who believes in leading with love and elevating others through intentional care.

https://www.awakeninghealingctr.com
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Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD): Understanding the Spine’s Wear and Tear Process