What Is a Cervical Radiculopathy?

Cervical radiculopathy is back pain associated with pressure from a ruptured disc in the spine. The pain comes from pressure to the nerve roots. Injuries to the nerve roots can result in back, shoulder and arm pains.

Symptoms

The main symptom of cervical radiculopathy is pain in the arms, neck, shoulder, back or chest. Numbness, weakness and lack of coordination are also symptoms.

Cause

Any injuries to the spine that damage the disks or nerve roots can cause cervical radiculopathy. Arthritis and lesions can also damage the nerve roots.

Diagnosis

A physician can check for cervical radiculopathy by attempting to reproduce the symptoms. An X-ray would also show any spinal damage. MRIs will show lesions to the tissue and any degenerative problems.

Treatment

Limiting the activities that put stress on the back and wearing cervical collars can help prevent and relieve pain. Corticosteroids are anti-inflammatory drugs that may be used in conjunction with non-steroidal and non-narcotic pain medication.

Prevention

Protecting yourself from back injury and taking time to stretch before strenuous activity will help minimize damage to the spine. Proper physical techniques during sporting events also reduce the chance of a serious injury.

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