Cervical Radiculopathy Treatment in Kanata

Cervical Radiculopathy – a real pain in the neck!

The lower cervical spine (neck) nerves play a critical role in transmitting signals between the brain the various parts of the upper body, particularly in the shoulders, arms, and hands.

These nerves exit the spinal cord through openings in the vertebrae called foramina. When the nerves become compressed or irritated due to conditions like cervical disc herniation, spinal stenosis, or degenerative disc disease, it can lead to significant pain and dysfunction.

When the lower cervical nerves are affected, the pain often radiates from the neck down into the shoulders, arms, and hands, a condition known as cervical radiculopathy. This pain occurs because the irritated nerves follow specific pathways from the neck into those areas. Besides pain, patients may experience numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms and hands. This can greatly impact daily activities of living, making it difficult to perform tasks like brushing your teeth, lifting or carrying items, using scissors, or opening a jar.

The lower cervical nerves also control muscle function in the arms and hands. When the nerves are compromised, it can lead to muscle weakness or atrophy over time if left untreated. The severity of the symptoms can vary widely amongst individuals. Some experience mild discomfort, and others may endure severe, debilitating pain.

Proper diagnosis and chiropractic care is essential to address the underlying causes of cervical radiculopathy and alleviate the painful, disruptive symptoms. If you know someone with pain or other symptoms in the neck, shoulders, arms, or hands, please let them know that we are here to help.