Cervical radiculopathy occurs when a pinched nerve in the neck causes pain, tingling, numbness, and/or weakness and loss of function in the arm. This can be a frustrating and debilitating condition.
Approaches such as medication and steroid shots may provide temporary relief, however, the only way to achieve long-term resolution of symptoms is by addressing the root cause. So what causes nerve compression?
Nerve compression is caused by biomechanical fixation in the spine. Essentially, a bone in the neck is stuck and not moving properly. We identify exactly which bone isn’t moving properly and how by taking motion x-rays. This allows us to address the issue with precision, helping us treat it efficiently and achieve lasting results.
Here’s an example:
A woman in her mid-50’s presented with numbness, tingling, pain, and loss of function in her right arm. Our grip strength test showed that she had 20 pounds less grip strength in her right arm than in her left arm. This represents a significant loss of strength in this arm. We used motion x-ray to identify exactly which bones weren’t moving properly, causing nerve compression.
By utilizing multiple objective measures, functional tests, nervous system scans, and correlating them with motion x-ray findings, we were able to provide precise care correcting the issue. By addressing bones that were not moving properly in her lower/mid neck, we achieved structural improvement and decreased compression in the upper neck (the area that houses the brainstem — a crucial area neurologically). Within 2 months, she had regained all her strength in her arm and was no longer in pain. She worked a physical job, so this extended her career and ability to work.
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