Spine Conditions
Cervical Radiculopathy
Cervical radiculopathy is a medical condition that occurs when a nerve root in the neck is compressed, irritated, or inflamed. This can result in pain, numbness, weakness, or tingling in the neck, shoulder, arm, or hand. It is a common problem that affects many people, especially those over the age of 50.
Symptoms
The most common symptom of cervical radiculopathy is pain that radiates from the neck to the shoulder, arm, or hand. The pain can be sharp or dull and may worsen with certain movements, such as turning the head or bending the neck. Other symptoms may include:
- Numbness or tingling in the shoulder, arm, or hand
- Weakness in the shoulder, arm, or hand
- Loss of sensation in the shoulder, arm, or hand
- Difficulty with fine motor skills, such as buttoning a shirt or using a fork
- Muscle spasms in the neck or shoulder
Causes
Cervical radiculopathy can be caused by a number of factors, including:
- Herniated disc: A herniated disc in the neck can compress a nerve root, causing pain and other symptoms.
- Degenerative disc disease: As we age, the discs in our spine can degenerate and shrink, causing pressure on the nerve roots.
- Spinal stenosis: A narrowing of the spinal canal can compress the nerve roots in the neck, causing symptoms.
- Trauma: An injury to the neck, such as a car accident or sports injury, can damage the nerve roots.
- Arthritis: Arthritis in the neck can cause inflammation and pressure on the nerve roots.
