Cervical Radiculopathy

Cervical radiculopathy is a medical term used to define a group of symptoms deriving from a single or multiple conditions on the cervical spine due to dysfunction on the spinal nerve roots. The greater sum of the conditions affecting the cervical area of the spine result in impingement of the nerves which generate the physical symptoms relating to radiculopathy.

There is various types of impairment that can cause cervical radiculopathy to progress. Conditions which alter the natural structure of the spine through degeneration are the most common to cause dysfunction on the nerve pathways, although trauma from an injury in younger people can also misalign the spine and cause damage. Herniated discs and bone spurs developing from these can also pinch the spinal nerve roots over time. The irritation of the spinal nerve roots caused by compression will damage the nerves, leading to pain, tingling and loss of sensation in the hands and arms, as well as muscle weakness. These symptoms are commonly experienced when a person is suffering from cervical radiculopathy but, as with any other condition or dysfunction, the symptoms vary for each individual.

Compressed spinal nerve roots can occur at any level of the cervical spine. The location of the nerve that has been affected determines the type of cervical radiculopathy and is characterized by significant symptoms. The most common types of radiculopathy are located in the C6-C7 areas of the spine, which cause pain, tingling, numbness, and weakness throughout their upper body as well as all along the length of the arms and hands. 

By Dr. Alex Jimenez