Overview

Think of the nerves in your neck as electrical wires sending signals between your brain and body. When these wires function normally, you have normal movement and sensation. However, if something presses on or irritates these nerves, the signals become disrupted—this is the essence of cervical radiculopathy.

Common Causes

The most frequent causes of cervical radiculopathy include:

• Herniated Disc: A disc bulges or ruptures, pressing on nearby nerves.
• Bone Spurs (Osteophytes): Extra bone growths can form with age and pinch nerves.
• Degenerative Disc Disease: Disc wear reduces space around nerves, leading to stenosis.

Case Example

Symptoms

Symptoms can vary depending on the affected nerve, but they often include:

• Pain: Sharp or burning neck pain radiating down the arm.
• Numbness or Tingling: In the shoulder, arm, or hand.
• Weakness: Particularly in the muscles of the arm or hand.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on severity. Conservative methods are typically recommended when symptoms are mild, recent, or gradually improving:

• Physical therapy and targeted exercises.
• Medications (e.g., NSAIDs) to manage pain and inflammation.
• Corticosteroid injections for more severe inflammation.
• Activity modification and, in some cases, bracing.

Surgery is considered if pain is severe, long-standing, unresponsive to conservative care, or accompanied by weakness.

Surgical Treatments

Possible surgical options include:

• Anterior Cervical Discectomy & Fusion (ACDF): Removing the damaged disc and fusing the vertebrae.
• Hybrid ACDF + Cervical Disc Replacement (CDR): Combines stability with motion preservation.
• Cervical Disc Replacement: Replacing the affected disc to maintain flexibility.
• Foraminotomy: Performed via Minimally Invasive or Endoscopic technique to open up the space for the exiting nerve.

Patient Reported Outcomes

Studies and patient feedback often show notable improvements in pain relief and overall function post-surgery. These outcomes guide clinical decision-making to ensure the best care path for each individual.