Cervical radiculopathy

Cervical radiculopathy, commonly called a "pinched nerve," occurs when a nerve in the neck is compressed or irritated where it branches away from the spinal cord. This may cause pain that radiates into the shoulder and/or arm, as well as muscle weakness and numbness.

1. What happens if cervical radiculopathy is left untreated?
2. How do you fix cervical radiculopathy?
3. What does cervical radiculopathy pain feel like?
4. How long does it take to heal from cervical radiculopathy?

What happens if cervical radiculopathy is left untreated?

If left untreated, it may lead to permanent nerve damage. The most common symptoms of a pinched nerve include neck pain that travels down the arms and shoulders, difficulty lifting things, headache, and muscle weakness and numbness or tingling in fingers or hands.

How do you fix cervical radiculopathy?

Nonsurgical treatments for cervical radiculopathy typically include one or more of the following:

1. Rest or activity modification. ...
2. Physical therapy. ...
3. Ice and/or heat therapy. ...
4. Medications. ...
5. Cervical epidural steroid injection. ...
6. Manual manipulation. ...
7. Cervical traction.

What does cervical radiculopathy pain feel like?

In cases where cervical radiculopathy involves pain, it can range anywhere from a dull, general discomfort or achiness to a sharp, shock-like or burning pain. Cervical radicular pain may be felt anywhere from neck all the way down the arm into the fingers.

How long does it take to heal from cervical radiculopathy?

Generally speaking, most patients who undergo radiculopathy treatment will achieve relief within about 6 – 12 weeks, if not sooner.