Cervical Radiculopathy in Mona Vale
Pain, tingling, numbness or weakness travelling from the neck into the shoulder or arm may be caused by irritation of a cervical nerve root.
At Helix Recovery in Mona Vale, we assess your symptoms, movement and neurological function to determine whether cervical radiculopathy is contributing and develop an appropriate rehabilitation plan.
What is Cervical Radiculopathy?
Cervical radiculopathy occurs when a nerve root in the neck becomes irritated or compressed as it exits the cervical spine.
This irritation can result from a disc herniation, age-related degenerative changes or narrowing around the nerve. Symptoms often extend beyond the neck into the shoulder, arm or hand and may include altered sensation or weakness depending on the nerve involved.
While many people recover well with conservative management, identifying neurological involvement is an important part of assessment.
Common Symptoms
Neck pain with pain travelling into the shoulder or arm
Tingling or pins and needles in the arm or hand
Numbness in the arm or fingers
Arm or hand weakness
Reduced neck movement
Symptoms aggravated by certain neck positions or movements
How We Assess Cervical Radiculopathy
Neck and arm symptoms can arise from several different structures, and neurological symptoms don't always mean a nerve is being permanently damaged.
Your assessment may include neck movement, upper-limb strength, sensation, reflexes, neurological and nerve-tension testing, and examination of the shoulder where relevant.
The aim is to determine whether a cervical nerve root is contributing to your symptoms, identify the affected region and determine whether further investigation or referral is appropriate.
How We Treat Cervical Radiculopathy
Treatment depends on how long symptoms have been present, their severity and the activities you want to return to.
Treatment may include:
Osteopathic manual therapy
Progressive exercise rehabilitation
Nerve mobility exercises where appropriate
Neck and upper-back strengthening
Activity and load modification
Gradual return to work, gym or sport
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A disc bulge is a structural finding, while cervical radiculopathy describes symptoms caused by irritation of a cervical nerve root. Not every disc bulge causes radiculopathy.
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Yes. Depending on which nerve root is involved, symptoms may include tingling, numbness or weakness affecting different parts of the arm or hand.
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Not always. Many cases can initially be assessed clinically. MRI may be recommended if symptoms are severe or persistent, significant neurological findings are present, or the result is likely to change management.
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Progressive arm weakness, significant loss of hand function, problems with walking or balance, or changes in bladder or bowel function require prompt medical assessment.
Common Questions
Neck or Arm Symptoms That Aren't Improving?
If pain, tingling or weakness is affecting your work, training or everyday activities, a thorough assessment can help determine what may be contributing and what to do next.