24/09/2025
π₯ Cervical Nerve Root Impingement (Cervical Radiculopathy) π₯
This happens when a nerve in your neck gets compressed or irritated β often from a herniated disc, arthritis/bone spurs, or trauma.
π Common Symptoms
β’ Neck + arm pain
β’ Numbness or tingling in the arm/hand/fingers
β’ Weakness (grip, lifting, pushing)
β’ Symptoms usually follow a specific nerve root pattern:
β’ C5 β Shoulder pain, weak deltoid
β’ C6 β Pain into thumb, weak wrist extension
β’ C7 β Pain into middle finger, weak triceps
β’ C8 β Pain into ring/little finger, weak grip
π§ͺ Diagnosis
β’ Clinical exam + MRI
β’ Spurlingβs test (turn head + pressure reproduces symptoms)
β’ EMG nerve testing (if needed)
β
Management
β’ Rest + activity modification
β’ Physical therapy (posture, traction, strengthening)
β’ Medications (NSAIDs, nerve pain meds)
β’ Injections for persistent pain
β’ Surgery only if severe/progressive weakness or spinal cord compression
π‘ Most cases improve with conservative care π
π¨ But if you notice worsening weakness, severe pain, or balance/bowel/bladder changes β see a doctor immediately.
β¨ Protect your neck. Stay strong, stay informed. πͺ