If a nerve is mechanically compressed at the nerve root (where the nerve exits the spine in the neck), then it can cause pain and other symptoms. When it is only causing pain, this is often referred to as radicular pain. When it is causing pain, pins and needles, numbness and or weakness, then it is known as Cervical Radiculopathy.
The nerve root compression can be caused by a range of factors, including cervical disc protrusion, osteophytes (think bony spurs) or stenosis (spondylosis). In many cases, it is a combination of all three factors.
Neck Pain and Shoulder Blade
A thorough assessment from a physiotherapist can usually determine the area in the neck where the nerve is believed to be compressed. Then, the Physiotherapist could advise on how severe the compression appears to be.
The good news is that in a majority of cases (approximately 80%), symptoms from cervical radiculopathy can be managed conservatively without any surgical intervention. Physiotherapy is effective, with the primary aim of treatment to improve or restore range of motion in the cervical spine. Your physiotherapist will also aim to settle down the irritated nerve using special exercises that address what is known as “mechanosensitivity” (mobility and irritability of the nerve). Then, once settled, the physiotherapist will provide you with a program of strength work targeting the cervico-thoracic muscles (upper back and neck).
Typically, our clients who present with cervical radicular symptoms are in a lot of pain at their first session. This often settles with treatment and rest across the first 3-4 sessions (1-2 weeks), with the whole treatment plan taking somewhere between 6-12 weeks to complete.
Before a severe episode of cervical radiculopathy, clients may experience one or two episodes of less severe neck and/or arm pain of a few days’ duration. Another thing that might occur before a severe episode of pain is a generalised reduction in your neck range of motion. Stiffness usually presents before pain, so this is a great time to see a physiotherapist for assessment and treatment. It is much quicker to settle down neck symptoms before the nerve becomes irritated.
Reach out to us on 07 3822 8879 to speak about your neck, arm, or shoulder symptoms.
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