The condition in which the nerve root of the spine is compressed or pinched is called Cervical Radiculopathy. It causes pain that radiates beyond the neck, causing various other symptoms like numbness in the arms or muscle weakness. Cervical Radiculopathy can lead to discomfort and even disability. 

Symptoms 

Despite any link with age, cervical Radiculopathy can affect people of any age. Many work holidays are taken due to this condition, which is affecting a high number of individuals. Various signs and symptoms include: 

• Neck pain 
• Numbness and tingling 
• Unilateral arm pain 
• Muscle weakness 
• Weakness in the arms, shoulder, chest and upper back 
• Changes in bowel as well as bladder function 
• Impaired deep tendon reflexes 
• Early recognition is crucial for effective management and treatment of cervical Radiculopathy. 

 Causes 

• Several causes contribute towards this condition. Some are: 
• Cervical spondylosis 
• Herniated disc 
• Degeneration and narrowing of the spinal openings 
• Spinal instability 
• Less common causes include trauma, cysts, infection and tumours. 

Diagnosis 

Diagnosis for cervical Radiculopathy can be done through a combination of several tests, like 

X-ray- it is done for the evaluation of neck and upper extremity pain. Lateral, oblique and open-mouth views may be helpful in revealing various disc space narrowings. 

CT scans

MRI

Electromyography [EMG]

Before all the screenings, the medical history of the patient is checked. Also, physical tests, including movements to check reflexes and range of motion, could be done. The Spurling test could be done to find out the affected nerve root. 

Treatment 

To relieve the symptoms and reduce inflammation, it is very important to manage the situation. It should be treated to improve spinal function. Various non-surgical treatments include: 

Anti-inflammatory drugs

Translaminar epidural steroid injections can improve the symptoms and reduce the inflammation caused by the nerve root as well. 

Physical therapy 

Tricyclic antidepressants and gabapentin 

Medical durable goods and appliances like cervical pillows and neck collars can help alleviate symptoms during sleep. 

Acupuncture 

Chiropractic or osteopathic manipulation 

Epidural steroids 

Opioid pain medications 

Surgical treatment should be the ultimate option if medications and therapies are unable to control the condition. It has two approaches: 

Anterior approach- a small incision is made in the front of the neck for removing the affected disc. To fuse the vertebrae, a spacer and plate are used to stabilise the spine and prevent movement. 

Posterior approach- a small incision is made in the back of the bone for relieving pressure on the nerve root. 

Recovery 

Many patients can get discharged the same day or the next. There could be temporary difficulty in swallowing, which will be resolved over time. Full recovery after the surgery may take up to weeks or months to heal completely. Each recovery depends on the procedure and the lifestyle of the patient. 

Conclusion 

Talking about the vascular neuro intervention, minimally invasive neurosurgery and endoscopic skull base neurosurgery, Dr Jhawar of Jhawar Neuro Hospital holds the number one position in the field of neurosurgery. 

With 15 years of experience, he works towards providing an effective treatment plan tailored to the needs of the patient.