Diagnosis of Cervical Radiculopathy

A cervical radiculopathy can happen because of an injury, aging or from a growth. A doctor can often make a diagnosis from examining the patient and looking at the patient's history and current pain level but will need further diagnostic tests to confirm a radiculopathy and to determine the best treatment.

What is a Radiculopathy?

• A radiculopathy is caused by pressure on nerve roots in the spinal column. This can be caused by degenerative changes due to aging, an accident that causes injury, or a tumor.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of a cervical radiculopathy may include pain, numbness and muscle spasms in the neck. Often the pain or numbness radiates to the shoulders, arms or hands.

Examination

• A doctor will ask about your symptoms and then do a physical exam. Pain when touching the neck, shoulder or around upper spine area along with feelings of numbness radiating down the arms may require further testing to determine a radiculopathy.

X-ray

• An X-ray can be done to show degenerative changes that are due to the body's normal process of aging.

CT Scan

• A computed tomography scan or CT scan gives better visualization of the spine than an X-ray. Herniations and spinal cord compression is more defined.

MRI

• An MRI is the best test to show soft tissue visualization, as it can detect ligament and disc disruption better than an X-ray or CT scan. A doctor will order this test when the history of the patient, the examination and pain level determines that it is necessary.