Treatment for Cervical Radiculopathy in New Jersey
Your spinal cord performs the essential function of relaying information between the body and the brain. Along its length, nerve roots branch away to reach various parts of the body. Each root exits the spinal cord through a tiny opening between the vertebrae. When this small gap is impeded, the nerve becomes pinched or impinged. Cervical radiculopathy is a condition in which pinched nerve roots in the neck/cervical spine region cause radiating pain, often in your shoulders, arms, hands, and fingers.
NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute provides non-invasive treatment and minimally invasive spine surgery for a variety of spinal conditions, including cervical radiculopathy. With locations in Paramus, Woodbridge, Toms River, Jersey City, and Holmdel, NU-Spine serves patients throughout New Jersey.
What Causes Cervical Radiculopathy?
The cervical region, or neck, is the least-protected region of the spine. It is also one of the most active. The cervical spine is responsible for supporting and moving your head. The high stress, combined with the lack of defense, makes this section of the spine particularly vulnerable to injury.
Cervical radiculopathy has various causes, including:
- Wear and tear due to aging
- Arthritis, especially spondylosis and cervical degenerative joint disease
- Traumatic injuries, including whiplash
- Repetitive movements and workplace stress that impact the neck
- Spinal stenosis
- Inflammation from infections
- A herniated or slipped cervical disc
- A spinal tumor
Regardless of the cause, cervical radiculopathy can involve pain, discomfort, and a reduced quality of life. Noticing a problem and seeking a professional diagnosis is your first step toward receiving effective treatment and lasting relief.
What Are the Symptoms of Cervical Radiculopathy?
When a nerve becomes impinged, it can no longer function as normal. The pinch results in signal interference that may cause sensory and motor information to be sent incorrectly. In severe cases, the flow of information may be halted entirely.
Impinged cervical nerve roots can prevent a person from feeling or using their shoulders, arms, and hands correctly. Symptoms typically affect these parts of the body, though their nature and intensity may vary depending on the severity of the condition. Signs to look for include:
- A burning tingling or pins-and-needles sensation
- Traveling pain in the neck, shoulder, or arm
- Numbness or loss of feeling
- Muscle weakness
- Loss of motion or function
- Headaches felt just above the back of the neck
Though these signs may be indicative of cervical radiculopathy, many similar or overlapping conditions can cause the same symptoms. NU-Spine recommends contacting a neurosurgeon for a professional diagnosis to ensure patients receive the right treatment.
How Do Doctors Diagnose Cervical Radiculopathy?
The diagnosis process at NU-Spine begins with a physical exam and an evaluation of the patient’s medical records. Dr. Branko Skovrlj may also request a variety of diagnostic tests using state-of-the-art equipment. These may include:
- Spurling’s test
- X-ray
- Computed tomography (CT) scans
- Magnetic resonating imagery (MRI)
- Electromyography (EMG)
The goal is to determine the underlying cause of your pain and provide a full picture of your condition. Each case of cervical radiculopathy is different. By learning as much as we can about each patient’s case, we can develop a treatment plan to address your symptoms as effectively as possible.
What Are Cervical Radiculopathy Treatments?
The best treatment for cervical radiculopathy depends on a variety of factors. Individual cases can vary widely based on the patient’s age, overall health, and the root cause of the condition. This is why NU-Spine follows a personalized approach, considering all factors to develop a treatment plan unique to the patient. Most plans begin with non-invasive treatments such as:
- Short-term rest
- Adjustments to activity levels and types
- Ice or heat therapy
- Physical therapy
- Immobilization using a restrictive collar
- Over-the-counter or prescription pain medication
- Epidural steroid injections
Most cases will improve with non-surgical treatment. If these methods fail to provide relief, NU-Spine may suggest surgery. NU-Spine specializes in minimally invasive neck surgery, including:
- Cervical discectomy
- Microdiscectomy
- Disc replacement
- Vertebral fusion
Minimally invasive spine surgery uses small incisions and specialized tools to minimize the procedure’s impact. By reducing stress on the body, minimally invasive procedures can ensure a smoother recovery with less risk, less post-operative pain, and faster results.
Find Cervical Radiculopathy Treatment at NU-Spine
If you need treatment for neck pain from cervical radiculopathy or another cervical spine condition, transform your life with a touch of care at NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute. Experience the cutting edge in minimally invasive spine treatments. Don’t wait for relief; schedule your appointment with our spine experts today and take the first step toward a pain-free future. Contact us today for an initial consultation, or visit one of our locations in Paramus, Woodbridge, Toms River, Jersey City, or Holmdel, NJ.