Don't let a pinched nerve be a pain in your neck

When a nerve in the neck is irritated as it leaves the spine this is called cervical radiculopathy. It is commonly thought of as a "pinched nerve." The nerve can be compressed by a bulging or ruptured disc, degenerative changes in your neck (cervical spine), or an injury to the cervical spine. When a nerve from the cervical spine gets compressed, a person may feel pain, burning, numbness and/or tingling sensations radiating out from their neck. This can cause pain in their arms or hands, and they may even notice weakness in one or both of their arms or hands. Headaches and neck pain are also possible. Wherever the irritated nerve travels is where the person will feel pain.

Physical therapy can help alleviate the symptoms associated with cervical radiculopathy. The goal of therapy is to alleviate pain and reduce the chance of re-injury. Gentle traction and stretching exercises can help relieve pressure on the nerve and strengthening exercises can be added to help improve the strength and coordination in the muscles of the neck. Instruction on posture and the proper setup of a workstation can also be provided to help relieve strain on the neck. A person's daily activities will also be analyzed to ensure good body mechanics are used throughout the day, preventing further injury.

Based on the research, early physical therapy intervention of cervical radiculopathy can improve your ability to perform daily activities. Don't wait any longer to start relieving this discomfort. At Pinnacle Physical Therapy all of our therapists are experts in the treatment of neck and back pain. Call one of our two convenient locations today to schedule an appointment - Post Falls (208) 777-4242 or Coeur d'Alene (208) 665-2000 or visit our website at www.pinnaclephysicaltherapy.org.