Musculoskeletal Condition · Glastonbury, CT

Cervical Radiculopathy

Arm pain, numbness or tingling from a pinched nerve in the neck. See non-surgical evaluation and options with Dr. Paul Tortland in Glastonbury, CT.

Written and clinically reviewed by

Paul D. Tortland, DO, FAOASM, CAQSM, RMSK

Dr. Paul Tortland, DO is a non-surgical orthopedic & sports medicine physician specializing in regenerative orthopedics and surgical alternative treatment. He is dual board-certified in Sports Medicine & Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (OMM) and Regenerative Medicine, Fellowship-trained in Sports Medicine. He became the first physician in the world to earn board certification in Regenerative Medicine in 2015. Diplomate, American Board of Regenerative Medicine (ABRM), 2015. Registered in Musculoskeletal Ultrasound (RMSK).

Condition

What is cervical radiculopathy?

A pinched nerve in the neck, called cervical radiculopathy, can cause arm pain, numbness, tingling or weakness, and most cases improve without surgery.

It is often caused by a herniated (slipped) disc or by arthritis that narrows the space around the nerve. Get urgent care for worsening weakness, trouble with hand coordination or walking, or changes in bladder or bowel control.

Explore related conditions: Browse the Neck condition hub for related diagnoses and treatment options.

CARE OPTIONS

How is cervical radiculopathy treated?

Dr. Tortland’s potential treatment options: Dr. Tortland first evaluates whether arm symptoms come from a cervical nerve root or a peripheral nerve. He may discuss PRP treatment only for selected, confirmed musculoskeletal pain generators; a spinal nerve-root problem is not the same as peripheral nerve entrapment, and ultrasound-guided nerve hydrodissection is not a universal treatment for cervical radiculopathy.

Physical therapy and traditional care: Many cases start with clinician-guided physical therapy, gradual neck and shoulder exercise, activity modification, and medication when safe. Imaging or electrodiagnostic testing may be needed when symptoms persist or weakness is present.

When other care may be needed: Progressive arm or hand weakness, trouble with balance or walking, or bowel/bladder changes needs prompt medical evaluation. A spine specialist may discuss additional procedures or surgery when appropriate.

Common questions

Questions about cervical radiculopathy

What causes cervical radiculopathy?

A nerve root in the neck gets irritated or squeezed. This is most often caused by a herniated disc or by arthritis that narrows the space where the nerve exits the spine.

What are the symptoms of cervical radiculopathy?

Typical symptoms are neck pain with arm pain, numbness, tingling or weakness, often following a specific nerve pattern. Difficulty walking, clumsy hands, progressive weakness or loss of bladder or bowel control can signal a more serious problem and needs urgent evaluation.

What are the non-surgical treatment options for cervical radiculopathy?

Many cases improve with physical therapy, activity changes and anti-inflammatory measures. Image-guided injections may be offered if pain lasts. Surgery is considered for growing weakness or when the spinal cord is affected.

What regenerative options may help cervical radiculopathy?

Dr. Tortland may consider ultrasound-guided hydrodissection for stuck nerves, and prolotherapy or PRP for loose neck ligaments and joints. Evidence varies, and whether you are a candidate is decided after an exam and imaging.