Lumbar and Cervical Radiculopathy – Pinched Nerve
Description
This condition is literally a pain in the neck resulting from an injury to or compression of a spinal nerve. This disruption in nerve function causes a variety of symptoms that may worsen when turning the head or straining the neck. Keep reading to learn more about pinched nerves.
Causes & Triggers
- Age-related disc degeneration
- Arthritis
- Bone spur
- Spondylosis
Signs & Symptoms
- “Pins and needles” sensation
- Numbness
- Pain (especially radiating down arm)
- Sharp pain
- Weakness with some activities
- Worsening pain with neck movement (extending, straining)
Tips & Treatment
- This condition typically occurs in people age 50 and older.
- Many people have this condition, yet are symptom free.
- Cervical radiculopathy may resolve itself over time.
- Some people experience recurrence of this condition.
- Non-surgical treatment may include rest, soft collar to reduce and limit movement, physical therapy, strengthening, stretching, traction, anti-inflammatory medications, oral corticosteroids, physician-directed narcotic pain medication and/or steroid spinal injections.
- Because surgical intervention may be helpful, seek the medical opinion of a well-qualified orthopedic surgeon.
