What Is Cervical Radiculopathy?

Cervical radiculopathy is a condition where a nerve root in the cervical spine (neck region) becomes compressed or inflamed, leading to neurological symptoms that radiate into the shoulder, arm, or hand. This often results from a herniated disc or bone spur pressing on a nerve exiting the spinal cord.

The condition can develop suddenly due to trauma or gradually from degenerative changes in the spine.

Causes and Risk Factors

• Cervical disc herniation
• Degenerative disc disease
• Bone spurs from osteoarthritis (spondylosis)
• Spinal instability or foraminal narrowing
• Poor posture and repetitive neck strain
• More common in adults aged 40–60

Symptoms

• Sharp or burning pain radiating from the neck into the arm
• Numbness or tingling in fingers or forearm (usually one side)
• Muscle weakness in the upper limb (biceps, triceps, grip strength)
• Reduced reflexes in the affected arm
• Neck stiffness or pain when turning or tilting the head
• Symptoms may worsen with certain movements or sustained positions

Diagnosis

• Detailed history and neurological examination
• Spurling’s test: Neck maneuver that reproduces arm symptoms
• MRI: Most effective imaging tool for visualizing nerve root compression
• X-rays: Show degenerative changes or alignment issues
• EMG/Nerve conduction studies: Assess the electrical activity of affected nerves

Treatment

Non-Surgical Treatment

• Rest and activity modification
• Anti-inflammatory medications or corticosteroids
• Physical therapy for posture training and neck stabilization
• Cervical traction or ergonomic adjustments at work
• Epidural steroid injections to reduce inflammation and relieve pain

Surgical Treatment

• Indicated for severe or persistent symptoms not relieved by conservative care
• Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF): Removes the compressive structure and stabilizes the segment
• Cervical Foraminotomy: Decompresses the nerve root by enlarging the foramen (nerve passageway)
• Disc Replacement: Preserves motion in select patients with isolated disc issues

Recovery Timeline

• Most patients respond to conservative treatments within 6–8 weeks
• Post-surgical recovery begins with 1–2 weeks of rest, followed by physical therapy
• Return to daily activities typically within 4–6 weeks
• Full recovery and return to sports or demanding work may take 2–3 months

Expert Treatment at Kerlan Jobe Institute

Kerlan Jobe Institute offers comprehensive care for cervical radiculopathy using a multidisciplinary approach. From precise diagnostics to tailored physical therapy and, when necessary, state-of-the-art surgical techniques, our team works to resolve nerve pain and restore function with minimal disruption to daily life.