Cervical Radiculopathy Treatment

Most people are familiar with problems that can affect the spine. The most common is a "slipped" lumbar disc that impinges on the nerves of the spine, resulting in pain of the lower back that diffuses out into your buttocks, thigh and calf. But this isn't the only location affected with such an issue. You can also develop a similar condition in the cervical region of your spine. Often referred to as cervical radiculopathy, a disc within the seven vertebrae of the neck can compress a spinal nerve, causing pain in the shoulder, arm and even hand.

Noninvasive Treatment

• As with almost any condition that can affect the body, doctors turn to more conservative modes of care to first treat cervical radiculopathy. And one of the more effective forms of treatment is the immobilization of the neck. A neck collar is by far the most common way in which the cervical spine is immobilized. Not only does it limit movement, thereby reducing further irritation of the nerve, but it also allows inflammation affecting the disc to subside, which can go a long way to diminish the pain you're experiencing in the neck, shoulder, arm and hand. Collars are typically worn for one to two weeks. Any longer could have an adverse effect, resulting in muscle weakness that could cause further injury.

  Neck collars are frequently used in conjunction with other forms of treatment, such as prescription medications. Muscle relaxants are often given to lessen tension within the muscles of the neck, especially when radiculopathy causes spasms. This may be coupled with an anti-inflammatories, like corticosteroids, aspirin or ibuprofen, to reduce any swelling that encroaches on the nerve.

  As you begin to show signs of improvement, doctors frequently recommend physical therapy. Since the injury is likely a result of weakness, you can benefit from some guided strength training to improve muscle tone of the neck to better support the cervical spine. Therapy may also include modifications of your posture to reduce the chances of re-injury as well as low-impact exercises, like walking, biking or swimming to strengthen and limber the rest of your body.

Invasive Treatment

• If conservative forms of treatment fail to provide results (which is rare), a surgical procedure may be necessary to correct the problem in your cervical spine. This may include the removal or partial removal of a disc, bone or spur that is causing the compression. And depending on the type of surgery, the area may then need to be fused or supported by an implant attached to the remaining bones.