Cervical radiculopathy is a condition characterized by the compression or irritation of the brachial plexus and nerve roots that exit the cervical spine and supply the upper extremities.
The hallmark symptom of cervical radiculopathy is pain that radiates down the arm, which can range from mild to severe. Other symptoms may include weakness or numbness in the arm, hand, or fingers, and a tingling or burning sensation in the affected area. Patients may also experience neck pain or stiffness, as well as headaches in some cases. (1)
Causes:
Cervical radiculopathy can be caused by a variety of factors, including degenerative changes in the cervical spine, herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and trauma to the neck or shoulder. Repetitive motion or strain, such as that seen in athletes or people who perform manual labor, can also contribute to the development of brachial radiculopathy. (2)
Diagnosis:
The diagnosis of cervical radiculopathy involves a combination of a patient’s medical history, a physical examination, and imaging studies. A medical professional may perform neurological tests to assess the patient’s reflexes, muscle strength, and sensory function. X-rays, CT scans, or MRI may also be ordered to visualize the cervical spine and identify any abnormalities, such as herniated discs or bone spurs.
One Natural Way to Help Your Brachial Radiculopathy:
While there are several options available for cervical and brachial radiculopathy, chiropractic care and spinal alignment may be particularly effective in helping to relieve symptoms and restore function.
Chiropractic care involves the use of manual techniques to better align the spine and other joints in the body, with the goal of reducing pain, improving range of motion, and restoring normal function. In the case of brachial radiculopathy, chiropractic adjustments may be used to realign the cervical spine and relieve pressure on the affected nerve roots. By restoring proper spinal alignment, chiropractic care can help to reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and promote healing in the affected area.
Here are two references that discuss chiropractic care for brachial radiculopathy:
- A case study published in the Journal of Upper Cervical Chiro documented the successful outcome of a patient with brachial radiculopathy using upper cervical chiropractic treatment. The patient experienced a significant reduction in pain, numbness, and weakness in the arm after receiving a series of adjustments to the upper cervical spine. The authors of the study concluded that upper cervical chiropractic treatments can be an effective option for brachial radiculopathy. (3)
- A case study published in the Journal of Chiropractic Medicine noted a 40 year old woman experienced resolution of her cervcial radiculopathy symptoms and clinical findings within 90 days of initiating chiropractic care. (4)
In addition to spinal adjustments, chiropractic care for cervical radiculopathy may also include other techniques such as soft tissue therapy, exercise, and postural education. By addressing underlying musculoskeletal imbalances and promoting proper spinal alignment, chiropractic care can help to relieve pain, improve mobility, and enhance overall quality of life for patients with this condition.
Tips for Preventing And Managing Brachial Radiculopathy:
- Practice good posture: Poor posture can put unnecessary strain on the neck and shoulder, increasing the risk of radiculopathy. To promote spinal alignment, sit with your shoulders back, chest out, and chin slightly tucked in. Avoid slouching or hunching over while sitting or standing for long periods.
- Use ergonomically designed furniture: Whether at home or at work, make sure that your chair, desk, and computer are positioned in a way that supports good posture and spinal alignment. This can help reduce strain on the neck and shoulder.
- Exercise regularly: Exercise can help improve posture, strengthen the muscles that support the spine, and reduce inflammation. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, such as walking or swimming, most days of the week.
- Stretch regularly: Stretching can help improve flexibility and reduce muscle tension, which can help prevent cervical radiculopathy. Focus on stretching the neck, shoulders, and upper back muscles regularly throughout the day.
- Avoid repetitive motions: Repetitive motions, such as lifting heavy objects or performing overhead work, can contribute to radiculopathy. Take frequent breaks, stretch regularly, and use proper lifting techniques to reduce the risk of injury. (5)
- Seek chiropractic care: Chiropractic adjustments can help realign the spine and reduce pressure on the affected nerve roots. Regular chiropractic care can help prevent cervical and brachial radiculopathy and manage symptoms for those who already have the condition.
- Manage stress: Stress can contribute to muscle tension and pain, increasing the risk of cervical radiculopathy. Practice stress management techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to help manage stress and promote relaxation.
In conclusion, taking preventative measures and self-management strategies can be effective in preventing and managing cervical and brachial radiculopathy. By practicing good posture, exercising regularly, stretching, avoiding repetitive motions, seeking chiropractic care, and managing stress, individuals can reduce the risk of radiculopathy and promote overall spinal health.
References:
- “Brachial Radiculopathy.” MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 23 Mar. 2021, https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000442.htm.
- Radcliff, Kristen E., et al. “Cervical Radiculopathy: A Review.” HSS Journal, vol. 7, no. 3, 2011, pp. 265–272., doi:10.1007/s11420-011-9202-5.
- Reference: Grostic JD, Kelly T, Murphy LS. Resolution of brachial radiculopathy following upper cervical chiropractic care: a case study. J Upper Cerv Chiro Res. 2013;(3):21-26.
- Reference: Wayne M. Whalen et al. Resolution of cervical radiculopathy in a woman after chiropractic manipulation. J Chiropr Med. 2008 Mar; 7(1): 17–23.
- Baek BS, Lee JC, Koh YW, Kim YK. Brachial neuritis: a comprehensive review of the literature. J Hand Surg Asian Pac Vol. 2018;23(1):1-10. doi:10.1142/S2424835518720017