Cervical Radiculopathy Physiotherapy

Cervical radiculopathy physiotherapy is a common way to treat the issue. A cervical radiculopathy is when a nerve can be pinched from the neck causing pain going down the arm. It is a common problem in neck pain patients and can occur because of many issues.

Causes of Cervical Radiculopathy

• Disc bulges in the neck
• Degeneration of the neck
• Severe spine stenosis
• Bony spurs
• Poor posture
• Poor lifestyle habits

Symptoms of Cervical Radiculopathy

Symptoms of a nerve pinch in the neck can vary from person to person. You may experience some but not all of these symptoms:

• Neck pain
• Neck stiffness
• Difficulty turning your head
• 80% have pain with looking upwards
• Pain going into the upper trap or arm
• Aching in the arm
• Pins and needles in the arm
• Headaches
• Weakness in the arm

Do I Need Surgery?

For at least 90-95% of neck pain and cervical radiculopathy cases we see surgery is not required. This is because with the right physio treatment of the neck the nerve pinch can heal and resolve. The people that need surgery for this issue are those that are getting severe pain that does not get better with physio treatment or have unusual symptoms such as drop attacks and severe weakness. Your physio will help refer you to see a surgeon if this happens.

Treatment of Cervical Radiculopathy

Treatment of cervical radiculopathies of the neck by a physio involve trying to relax the neck down so that the body can heal itself

• Traction techniques
• Manual therapy of the neck
• Activity modifications
• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Icing of the neck
• Dry needling or massage of the neck
• Stretches of the neck
• Strengthening of the neck
• Taping of the shoulder blade
• Nerve stretches
• Ergonomic advice

Do I need Surgery for a Cervical Radiculopathy?

For at least 90-95% of neck pain and cervical radiculopathy cases we see surgery is not required. This is because with the right physio treatment of the neck the nerve pinch can heal and resolve. The people that need surgery for this issue are those that are getting severe pain that does not get better with physio treatment or have unusual symptoms such as drop attacks and severe weakness. Your physio will help refer you to see a surgeon if this happens.