Cervical radiculopathy is term used to describe radiating arm pain, numbness, or weakness caused by inflammation or pinching of a spinal nerve in the neck. Cervical radiculopathy can result from a herniated disc, degenerative disc disease, or stenosis (narrowing) of the cervical spine.

Cervical Radiculopathy

• Radiating arm pain, numbness, or weakness from an inflamed or pinched spinal nerve
• Caused by two conditions
• Disc herniation or “rupture”
• Foraminal Stenosis – gradual narrowing of the nerve tunnel (foramen) due to:
• Disc bulging from disc degeneration
• Bone spurs from arthritis

Three Phases of Treatment:

• Phase I – Non-Invasive Treatments
• Phase II – Spinal Injections
• Phase III – Surgery
• Goals of Each Phase:
  • Relieve Pain
  • Improve Function

Treatment Options: Phase I – Non-Invasive Treatments

• Oral Medications
• Steroids
• Non-Steroid Anti-Inflammatories (NSAIDs)
• Pain relievers
• Physical Therapy and Home Exercise
• Cervical Traction

Treatment Options: Phase II

• Cervical Epidural Steroid Injections
• Outpatient procedure
• Done with x-ray guidance
• 1-3 injections may be needed

Treatment Options: Phase III – Surgery

• Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF)
  • Cervical discs are removed through an incision in the front of the neck. The disc spaces are then fused, typically with a bone graft and a small plate that is held to the bone with screws. Learn more about ACDF.
• Cervical Artificial Disc Replacement (ADR)
  • Cervical discs are removed through an incision in the front of the neck. The disc spaces are then stabilized with an artificial disc implant that allows for continued motion.