Cervical Radiculopathy

Cervical radiculopathy is a pinched or irritated nerve in your neck that sends pain, tingling, weakness, or numbness down into your shoulder, arm, or hand.

It usually happens when a herniated disc, bone spur, or wear-and-tear changes press on a nerve root as it leaves the spine. If your neck pain travels down one arm or your grip feels weak, this condition may be the reason.

At Pain & Spine Physicians, our physicians pinpoint the exact nerve involved and treat it with targeted, minimally invasive care so you can avoid surgery whenever possible.

Living with pain shooting down your arm day after day takes a toll, and it does not have to be your new normal. To get answers and a plan, contact us online or call (972) 350-0225.

Common Symptoms of Cervical Radiculopathy

Symptoms depend on which nerve root is affected, but they tend to follow a clear pattern down the arm. Watch for these signs:

• Sharp or burning pain that runs from your neck into your shoulder or arm
• Tingling or a pins-and-needles feeling in your hand or fingers
• Weakness when gripping, lifting, or reaching
• Numbness along one side of your arm or hand
• Neck pain that worsens when you turn or tilt your head

When nerve irritation lingers, it can settle into chronic pain that affects your sleep, work, and daily routine. Catching it early gives you more treatment options.

What Causes Cervical Radiculopathy

Most cases come from age-related changes in the spine, but sudden injuries play a role too. A herniated disc can push against a nerve root, while bone spurs from arthritis can narrow the space nerves pass through. Whiplash from a car accident or fall can also inflame these nerves.

In many patients, inflammation around the nerve root makes the pain worse and harder to shake. The C6 and C7 nerve roots are the most commonly affected, which is why so many patients feel symptoms in the thumb, index, or middle finger. Our team uses imaging and a hands-on exam to confirm the source before recommending treatment.

How We Treat Cervical Radiculopathy

Our goal is to calm the irritated nerve and restore your function with the least invasive approach that works. Depending on your case, we may recommend one or more of the following:

• Epidural steroid injections: These reduce swelling around the pinched nerve root to ease arm and neck pain.
• Radiofrequency ablation: This in-office option involves no surgery or incision, requires no general anesthesia, and comes with minimal downtime.
• Physical therapy and activity guidance: These strengthen the muscles that support your neck and improve your range of motion.

Many patients improve without ever needing surgery. If your pain does not respond to conservative care, your physician will walk you through the next options. Every plan starts with an honest look at your imaging and daily limits, so treatment matches how the pain actually affects you.

Why Choose Pain & Spine Physicians for Cervical Radiculopathy

Pinpointing the exact nerve root behind your pain takes a careful eye, and that precision guides every step of your care here. Our physicians are board-certified in pain medicine, which reflects fellowship training in pain medicine after residency, so your care comes from a team that focuses on nerve pain every day.

Because we handle imaging and procedures in-office, your care stays coordinated and cost-effective under one roof. You also get access to several modern, state-of-the-art offices across the DFW and North Texas area, so relief is close to home. We build your plan around lasting results and your overall wellness, not a one-size-fits-all script.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Cervical Radiculopathy Go Away on Its Own?

Sometimes it improves with rest and conservative care. When symptoms linger or worsen, targeted treatment can prevent lasting nerve damage.

How Is Cervical Radiculopathy Diagnosed?

We combine your symptom history, a physical exam, and imaging such as an MRI to find the exact nerve involved and rule out other causes.

Can You Exercise With Cervical Radiculopathy?

Often, yes, with the right guidance. Gentle, targeted movement can help, while heavy lifting or straining may set you back until you heal. Posture correction and gentle neck stretches are usually safe starting points once your physician clears you.

Is Surgery Always Needed for a Pinched Nerve?

No. Most patients improve with injections, therapy, and time. Surgery is considered only when conservative treatments have not brought relief.

Get Relief From Cervical Radiculopathy Today

Our team will find the source of your nerve pain, explain your options, and stand behind your recovery from the first visit. Contact us online, or call (972) 350-0225 to learn how Pain & Spine Physicians can help.