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What is “Cervical Radiculopathy”?

Moramarco Chiropractic

In layman’s terms, cervical radiculopathy is known as a “pinched nerve” located in the cervical spine (the neck area). It involves damage to a nerve or the disturbance of nerve function, which can lead to pain and even disability.

The nerve roots in the cervical region are responsible for carrying signals between the brain and the upper body, including the neck, arms, chest, upper back and shoulders. When one of the cervical nerve roots becomes compressed, the result is signal transmission trouble. When this happens, symptoms that can occur are muscle weakness, pain, tingling (pins and needles) or numbness, particularly in the arms and hands. Some experience a sharp pain that travels down the arm. Another general symptom may be lack of coordination, particularly in the hands. Symptoms get worse when trying to extend or turn the head. If you find yourself dropping things and experiencing some of the previously mentioned symptoms, cervical radiculopathy may be the problem.

Causes of cervical radiculopathy all involve scenarios where pressure is put on the nerve roots. As we age, the spinal discs degenerate, to some extent. Vertebral discs lose fluid, so there is less cushioning between vertebrae, and the vertebrae themselves can sometimes become compressed due to bone loss. In response to the loss of bone, the body can create bone spurs in an effort to shore up the vertebrae, however, this buildup can impinge the area of the vertebrae through which the nerves run, putting pressure on the cervical nerve roots. In younger people, cervical radiculopathy is more commonly caused by an injury or acute trauma that causes a herniated disc. The disc material then puts pressure on the nerves, causing pain.

For most people, cervical radiculopathy dissipates in time with mild treatment or no treatment. For others, however, it can become a chronic condition. Common treatments include pain medication such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen. Some chose steroid injections in the cervical area. It’s important to understand that these approaches are intended primarily to reduce inflammation and pain. This means any relief is usually temporary and that the symptoms are likely to return.

Of the treatments for cervical radiculopathy chiropractic care is among the best choices since it is effective, non-invasive and drug-free. A chiropractic adjustment will remove pressure from the nerve roots, restoring function and range of motion, and help to eliminate pain. In some cases, therapy modalities used by chiropractors can also help by stretching and strengthening the neck muscles. Surgery to take pressure off the nerve roots is only necessary in rare occasions.

A Woburn chiropractor with dedicated to serving the local community, Dr. Marc Moramarco is conveniently located just off 128 – I95 at Exit 35, near the Stop & Shop at 3 Baldwin Green Common. Dr. Marc serves patients from Boston’s north suburbs including Burlington, Wilmington, Reading, North Reading, Winchester, Stoneham, Lexington, Wakefield, Lynnfield, Andover, Medford, Bedford and beyond. Call today at 781-938-8558 to schedule your appointment.

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