Cervical Radiculopathy

Key Signs of a Pinched Nerve in the Neck

The experience of a pinched nerve in the neck is not one-size-fits-all. The signs can range from mildly annoying to severely debilitating, depending on which nerve is affected and the extent of the compression. Accurate identification of these signs is crucial for a proper diagnosis and effective treatment plan.

Pain That Radiates from the Neck

This is the most classic symptom. The pain is not confined to the neck; it travels along the path of the compressed nerve. This is often described as a sharp, burning, or shooting pain that can extend to the shoulder, arm, hand, and even fingers.

Numbness or Tingling Sensations

You might feel a "pins-and-needles" sensation (paresthesia) in the areas supplied by the affected nerve. This tingling or numbness can make everyday tasks like typing or buttoning a shirt feel awkward and difficult.

Muscle Weakness

Nerve compression can interfere with signals to your muscles, leading to noticeable weakness. You might find it hard to grip objects, lift your arm, or perform tasks that require fine motor skills, indicating that the nerve is significantly impacted.

Specific Symptoms by Nerve Root Level

Knowing cervical radiculopathy symptoms by level helps pinpoint the exact location of the nerve compression. This is essential for a targeted diagnosis and treatment.

• C4 Radiculopathy Symptoms: Compression at the C4 level often causes pain and weakness in the neck, upper back (trapezius muscle), and top of the shoulders. Unlike other levels, it typically doesn't cause significant arm or hand symptoms.
• C6 & C7 Radiculopathy Symptoms: This is one of the most common areas for this condition. C6-C7 radiculopathy symptoms involve pain, numbness, and tingling that can travel down the arm to the index and middle fingers. Weakness may be present in the triceps (back of the arm) and wrist muscles.

The Diagnostic Process

To confirm the condition, a physiotherapist or doctor will conduct a thorough cervical radiculopathy symptoms diagnosis. This involves a physical examination to test your reflexes, muscle strength, and sensation, alongside specific neck movements to see if they reproduce your symptoms. In some cases, imaging tests like an MRI may be recommended to visualise the nerve and identify the source of compression.

Exploring What Causes Cervical Radiculopathy

Understanding the root cause of nerve compression is key to preventing its recurrence. The issue often stems from changes in the structures surrounding the nerve roots as they exit the spinal canal. These changes can happen gradually over time or suddenly due to injury.

Degenerative Disc Disease

As we age, the discs that cushion our vertebrae can lose height and hydration. This process can cause the vertebrae to move closer together, narrowing the space (foramen) where the nerves exit and leading to compression.

Herniated or Bulging Disc

A common answer to "what causes cervical radiculopathy" is a herniated disc. An injury or degenerative changes can cause the soft, gel-like center of a spinal disc to push out through its tougher exterior, placing direct pressure on an adjacent nerve root.

Cervical Spondylosis (Bone Spurs)

Also known as neck arthritis, this condition involves age-related wear and tear of the cervical spine. The body may respond by growing extra bone, called bone spurs (osteophytes), to reinforce the spine. These spurs can narrow the foramina and pinch the nerves.

Acute Injury or Trauma

A sudden force from a car accident (whiplash), a fall, or a sports injury can cause immediate changes to the neck's anatomy. This trauma can lead to a herniated disc or inflammation that results in nerve root compression.

How Physiotherapy Helps Manage Cervical Radiculopathy Symptoms

Physiotherapy is a cornerstone of effective, non-surgical management for a pinched nerve in the neck. The goal is not just to alleviate pain but to address the underlying mechanical issues, restore function, and prevent future episodes. At Physiotattva, our approach is comprehensive and patient-centric.

Manual Therapy and Mobilisation

Our skilled physiotherapists use hands-on techniques to gently mobilise the cervical spine. This helps to open up the foraminal space, reduce pressure on the nerve root, decrease stiffness, and restore healthy movement to the neck joints.

Targeted Strengthening and Stretching

Weakness in the deep neck flexors and upper back muscles can contribute to poor posture and increased strain on the cervical spine. We design a personalised exercise program to strengthen these supporting muscles and stretch tight muscles (like the chest and certain neck muscles) to create a more balanced and resilient spinal structure.

Posture Correction and Ergonomics

How you sit, stand, and work has a profound impact on your neck health. We provide expert guidance on ergonomic adjustments for your workstation and teach you proper posture to minimise daily strain on your cervical spine, which is a critical part of managing your cervical radiculopathy symptoms.

Pain Management Modalities

To provide immediate relief, we may use modalities such as interferential therapy (IFT), therapeutic ultrasound, or heat/cold therapy. These treatments help reduce inflammation, calm nerve irritation, and alleviate the sharp pain associated with the condition.

Achieve Pain Relief and Recovery with Physiotattva Physiotherapy

Dealing with the radiating pain, numbness, and weakness of a pinched nerve in the neck can be frustrating, but it’s highly treatable with the right approach. By understanding the symptoms and underlying causes, you can take proactive steps toward recovery. Physiotherapy provides a non-invasive solution that not only manages pain but also addresses the root mechanical issues. With the right treatment, you can regain strength, function, and control over your life. Don’t let neck and arm pain limit your daily activities; effective relief is within reach.

At Physiotattva physiotherapy clinics in Bangalore and Hyderabad, you receive personalised care tailored to your specific needs, ensuring effective results and comfort throughout your journey to recovery. 

Don’t wait to start your recovery! Get in touch with Physiotattva for more details! Contact us at +91 89510 47001.