Pinched Nerve in the Neck (Cervical Radiculopathy)

A pinched nerve in the neck, also known as cervical radiculopathy, occurs when a nerve root in the cervical spine becomes compressed or irritated. This condition can cause radiating pain, numbness, or weakness that travels from the neck into the shoulder, arm, or hand. At The Orthopedic Partners, we provide expert care for cervical radiculopathy to restore mobility, strength, and quality of life.

What Is a Pinched Nerve in the Neck?

The cervical spine consists of seven vertebrae (C1–C7), with nerves branching out from each level to control movement and sensation in the neck and arms. Cervical radiculopathy occurs when one of these nerves is compressed, often by a herniated disc or bone spur. This pressure can disrupt the normal function of the nerve, leading to pain, numbness, or weakness that follows the nerve’s path into the arm or hand.

Cervical radiculopathy most commonly affects the nerve roots at C5-C6 or C6-C7 (the bottom of the neck), as these areas are more prone to wear and tear due to their range of motion and load-bearing responsibilities.

Symptoms of Cervical Radiculopathy

Symptoms depend on the location and severity of the nerve compression. Common signs may include:

  • Neck pain that may be sharp or radiating
  • Pain that travels into the shoulder, arm, or hand
  • Numbness or tingling in the arms or fingers
  • Muscle weakness in the arms
  • Reduced grip strength or coordination in the hands
  • Limited neck range of motion

If you're experiencing persistent or worsening symptoms, especially if they significantly impact your daily life, we recommend scheduling a consultation with our spine specialists.

What Causes a Pinched Nerve in the Neck?

Cervical radiculopathy can develop from a range of spinal conditions or injuries, including:

  • Herniated disc: A disc bulge or rupture that presses on a nearby nerve
  • Degenerative disc disease: Disc shrinkage or deterioration that narrows nerve pathways
  • Bone spurs (osteophytes): Overgrowth of bone, often due to arthritis
  • Spinal stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal or foramen where nerves exit
    • Trauma: Sudden injury to the neck that causes disc or joint damage

Risk Factors

Several risk factors may increase your chances of developing cervical radiculopathy:

  • Being over the age of 40
  • Repetitive neck movements or poor posture
  • Jobs involving heavy lifting or overhead work
  • Smoking, which accelerates disc degeneration
  • Sedentary lifestyle
  • Prior neck injury or spine surgery

How Is Cervical Radiculopathy Diagnosed?

At The Orthopedic Partners, diagnosis begins with a detailed medical history and physical examination. We assess your symptoms, reflexes, strength, and nerve function. Diagnostic imaging may include:

  • X-rays: To evaluate alignment and signs of arthritis
  • MRI: The most accurate tool to visualize nerve compression
  • CT scan or CT myelogram: Helpful in more complex cases
  • Electrodiagnostic (EMG)/Nerve conduction studies (NCS): Used in select cases to confirm the nerve involved and rule out other causes

Treatment Options for a Pinched Nerve in the Neck

Most cases of cervical radiculopathy can be successfully managed without surgery. Our treatment plans are tailored to your specific symptoms, lifestyle, and response to initial therapies.

Non-surgical Treatments

  • Activity modification: Avoiding painful movements and improving posture
  • Physical therapy: Exercises to reduce nerve irritation and strengthen neck muscles
  • Medications: Anti-inflammatories, steroids, or muscle relaxants
  • Epidural steroid injections: To reduce nerve inflammation and pain
  • Cervical collar (short-term): To relieve pressure in acute cases

Surgical Treatment

Surgery may be considered if symptoms persist or worsen. Common procedures include:

  • Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF): Removal of the disc causing compression, followed by fusion for stability
  • Cervical Disc Replacement: Maintains motion while relieving pressure on the nerve
  • Posterior Cervical Decompression and Fusion: Removal of bone spurs, ligaments, and disc material that are compressing the nerves through an incision on the back of the neck.
  • Cervical Laminoplasty: Opens the spinal canal to relieve spinal cord compression while preserving motion.

We also offer robotic-assisted and computer-navigated surgery to improve precision and enhance patient outcomes.

When to See a Spine Specialist

If you experience persistent arm pain, weakness, or numbness that doesn’t improve within a few weeks, or if your symptoms are interfering with work, sleep, or daily activities, it’s time to consult a spine specialist. Early intervention for a pinched nerve in the neck can prevent long-term nerve damage and improve your outcome.

Get Relief from Cervical Radiculopathy

You don’t have to live with neck and arm pain. Our experienced spine team at The Orthopedic Partners is here to provide expert care for cervical radiculopathy, utilizing both conservative therapies and advanced surgical solutions when necessary.

Schedule your evaluation and take the next step toward finding relief today.