Cervical Radiculopathy

 Pinched Nerve Causing Arm Pain or Numbness

Quick Summary

Cervical radiculopathy occurs when a nerve in the neck is pinched or irritated, most often by a disc herniation or arthritis.

  • Common cause of arm pain, numbness, or tingling

  • Pain often travels from the neck into the upper back, shoulder, arm, or hand

  • Usually improves with non-surgical treatment

  • MRI helps identify the cause

  • Surgery is considered if pain or weakness does not improve

Illustration of a woman from the back showing the nervous system, with the nerves highlighted in yellow and the nerve pathways on the right arm highlighted in red.
Diagram of a herniated intervertebral disc showing the spinal cord, herniated disc, annulus fibrosus, and nucleus pulposus.

  • It means irritation or compression of a spinal nerve.

  • Yes. Pinched nerve is the common term for radiculopathy.

  • Yes. It usually affects one side.

What is cervical radiculopathy?

Cervical radiculopathy means that a nerve coming from the neck is being compressed or irritated.

Each nerve in the neck travels down the arm and supplies feeling and strength to specific areas. When a nerve is pinched, pain or numbness can travel along that nerve’s path.

What are the symptoms of cervical radiculopathy?

Symptoms depend on which nerve is affected.

Common symptoms include:

  • Sharp or burning arm pain

  • Numbness or tingling in the arm or fingers

  • Weakness in the arm or hand

  • Neck pain or stiffness

Back view of a man with a red highlighted area indicating pain or injury along the neck, shoulder, and down the arm to the hand.
Back of a woman with a ponytail experiencing neck pain or injury, with redness indicating inflammation or pain.

  • Because the nerve travels into the arm, pain is often felt there.

  • Each nerve supplies a specific area of the arm or hand.

  • Yes. Symptoms often fluctuate.

  • Progressive weakness, loss of coordination, or balance problems should be evaluated promptly.

What causes cervical radiculopathy?

The most common causes are:

  • Arthritis and bone spurs

  • Cervical disc herniation

  • Narrowing of the nerve opening (foraminal stenosis)

These changes can reduce space around the nerve.

Pressure on the nerve may cause inflammation in the nerve, which can be painful.

  • Yes. Many cases develop gradually.

  • Cervical spondylosis (age-related wear and tear) is the most common cause.

  • Repetitive strain on your neck may make symptoms worse, but it is more commonly caused by age-related changes over time.

  • Some people are more prone to disc problems due to inherited factors.

How is cervical radiculopathy diagnosed?

Diagnosis includes:

  • Review of symptoms

  • Physical and neurological exam

  • MRI of the cervical spine

MRI helps identify disc herniation, arthritis, or nerve compression.

MRI scan of a human neck showing the cervical spine and spinal cord.

  • X-rays show bones, not nerves.

  • Not always. Many patients improve without imaging unless symptoms persist or worsen.

  • Usually not, but they may be used in select cases.

What are the non-surgical treatment options?

Non-surgical treatment is the first step for most patients and may include:

  • Activity modification

  • Anti-inflammatory medications

  • Physical therapy

  • Short courses of oral steroids or steroid injections

These treatments help reduce pain while the nerve heals.

  • Many patients improve within 6–12 weeks.

  • Injections reduce inflammation but do not remove any pinching. However, your body may be able to heal itself over time.

  • Gentle activity is usually better than strict rest.

When is surgery recommended?

Surgery may be recommended if:

  • Pain continues despite proper treatment

  • Weakness is present or worsening

  • Symptoms affect daily life or work

  • There is pressure on the spinal cord

The goal of surgery is to remove pressure from the nerve or spinal cord.

X-ray image showing spinal vertebrae with surgical hardware including rods and screws.

  • Most patients do not need surgery.

    Many cases improve with time and conservative treatment.

  • Usually 4-6 weeks unless weakness is present.

  • Most nerves recover well, but progressive weakness needs attention.

What types of surgery treat cervical disc herniation?

Surgery focuses on removing pressure from the nerve.

Common surgical options include:

  • Many patients return to light activity within weeks.

  • Most patients return to work and exercise with guidance.

  • Disc replacement or foraminotomy may preserve motion in select cases.

  • This depends on job demands and treatment type.

A male medical professional in a white lab coat with embroidered text, wearing a blue shirt and navy tie, standing against a plain gray background.

When should I see a spine specialist?

You should seek evaluation if you have:

  • Neck or arm pain persists despite treatment

  • You develop weakness, numbness, or coordination problems

  • Symptoms that interfere with daily activities

Early evaluation can help guide appropriate treatment.

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