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NeurologicalICD-10: M54.12Cervical radiculopathy affects approximately 83 per 100,000 people annually

Pinched Nerve (Cervical Radiculopathy)

Also known as: Cervical Radiculopathy, Compressed Nerve, Trapped Nerve, Nerve Impingement

A pinched nerve occurs when excessive pressure is applied to a nerve by surrounding tissues such as bones, cartilage, muscles, or tendons, causing pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness along the nerve pathway. Cervical radiculopathy, one of the most common forms, involves compression of a nerve root in the neck, leading to symptoms that radiate into the shoulder, arm, and hand. While many pinched nerves resolve with rest and conservative treatment within a few weeks, prolonged compression can lead to chronic pain and permanent nerve damage.

Symptoms

Sharp, burning, or radiating pain from the compressed area outward
Numbness or decreased sensation in the area supplied by the nerve
Tingling or 'pins and needles' sensation
Muscle weakness in the affected area
Feeling that a hand or foot has 'fallen asleep' frequently
Pain that worsens with certain movements or positions
Decreased grip strength (in cervical radiculopathy)

Causes

  • Herniated or bulging disc compressing a nerve root
  • Bone spurs (osteophytes) from spinal arthritis narrowing nerve channels
  • Spinal stenosis causing narrowing of the spinal canal
  • Repetitive motions causing inflammation around the nerve (carpal tunnel syndrome)
  • Prolonged positioning putting pressure on a nerve

Risk Factors

  • Age-related spinal degeneration (spondylosis)
  • Repetitive motions in occupation or sports
  • Obesity placing additional pressure on nerves and joints
  • Pregnancy-related fluid retention and swelling
  • Prolonged bed rest or sedentary positions
  • Rheumatoid arthritis causing joint inflammation near nerves

Diagnosis

  • Physical examination including Spurling's test and neurological assessment
  • MRI to visualize nerve compression, disc herniation, or spinal stenosis
  • Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies to assess nerve function
  • X-rays to identify bone spurs or narrowing of disc spaces
  • CT scan for detailed bony anatomy when MRI is contraindicated

Treatment

  • Rest and activity modification to relieve pressure on the affected nerve
  • NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen) for pain and inflammation reduction
  • Physical therapy with nerve gliding exercises and postural correction
  • Cervical traction to decompress nerve roots in the neck
  • Epidural steroid injections for persistent radicular pain
  • Surgical decompression (foraminotomy, discectomy) for severe or progressive cases

Prevention

  • Maintain good posture, especially when sitting for long periods
  • Take regular breaks from repetitive activities to stretch
  • Strengthen core and postural muscles through regular exercise
  • Maintain a healthy weight to reduce mechanical stress on nerves
  • Use ergonomic workstation setup and proper body mechanics

When to See a Doctor

  • Pain, numbness, or tingling persists for more than a few days and does not respond to rest
  • You experience progressive weakness in your arm, hand, or leg
  • Pain severely limits your ability to work or perform daily activities
  • You lose bowel or bladder control (seek emergency care immediately)

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Conditions

Back Pain

Musculoskeletal

Arthritis

Musculoskeletal

Herniated Disc

Musculoskeletal

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