Cervical Radiculopathy and Herniated Disc

 


Cervical radiculopathy is term used to describe radiating arm pain, numbness, or weakness caused by inflammation or pinching of a spinal nerve in the neck. Cervical radiculopathy can result from a herniated disc, degenerative disc disease, or stenosis (narrowing) of the cervical spine.

Cervical Radiculopathy

  • Radiating arm pain, numbness, or weakness from an inflamed or pinched spinal nerve
  • Caused by two conditions
  • Disc herniation or “rupture”
  • Foraminal Stenosis – gradual narrowing of the nerve tunnel (foramen) due to:
  • Disc bulging from disc degeneration
  • Bone spurs from arthritis

Three Phases of Treatment:

  • Phase I – Non-Invasive Treatments
  • Phase II – Spinal Injections
  • Phase III – Surgery
  • Goals of Each Phase:
    • Relieve Pain
    • Improve Function

Treatment Options: Phase I – Non-Invasive Treatments

  • Oral Medications
  • Steroids
  • Non-Steroid Anti-Inflammatories (NSAIDs)
  • Pain relievers
  • Physical Therapy and Home Exercise
  • Cervical Traction

Treatment Options: Phase II

  • Cervical Epidural Steroid Injections
  • Outpatient procedure
  • Done with x-ray guidance
  • 1-3 injections may be needed

Treatment Options: Phase III - Surgery

  • Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF)
    • Cervical discs are removed through an incision in the front of the neck. The disc spaces are then fused, typically with a bone graft and a small plate that is held to the bone with screws. Learn more about ACDF.
  • Cervical Artificial Disc Replacement (ADR)
    • Cervical discs are removed through an incision in the front of the neck. The disc spaces are then stabilized with an artificial disc implant that allows for continued motion. Learn more about Cervical ADR.