Cervical Radiculopathy (Pinched Nerve)
The cervical spine or neck area has many nerve roots that exit the spinal column. When vertebrae or intervertebral discs are damaged, they put pressure on these nerves, referred to as cervical radiculopathy, or a pinched nerve. Patients with cervical pinched nerves may experience pain in the neck, shoulders, arms and upper back. Our pain physicians at Medici Spine & Pain offer effective treatment for cervical radiculopathy at our clinics in the Atlanta area.
Pinched nerves can be caused by a few different issues in the cervical spine. When components of the cervical spine are damaged, it can cause instability, inflammation and protruding material that pinches or puts pressure on the nerves. Herniated discs, bulging discs or degenerative disease can cause cervical radiculopathy. The symptoms of pain affect the neck like a mechanical neck condition. However, it differs by radiating through the nerves to the upper extremities like the shoulders, arms and upper back. To relieve the pain, it is best to treat the source of pressure on the nerves.
Treating Pinched Nerve Neck Pain
Treatment for cervical radiculopathy depends on what is causing the pinched nerve. A proper diagnosis is needed to identify the cause and repair the issue when possible. If there is inflammation, injection treatments with steroids could be used for relief. Herniated or bulging discs may require surgical repair. Instability in the spine may be treated with injections or surgery, depending on the type and severity. Our team at Medici Spine & Pain will create a treatment plan, focusing on conservative options to relieve pain. If surgical intervention is needed, we offer minimally-invasive endoscopic surgery for repairing discs and vertebrae at our advanced surgical center in Marietta.
If you have neck pain radiating into your shoulders, arms and upper back, you may have a pinched nerve. Contact us to schedule an exam and diagnosis. Explore your options for treatment and pain management.
