Cervical Radiculopathy

Book
In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2026 Jan.
.

Excerpt

Neck pain is a common condition that can cause significant discomfort and disability in patients of different ages. Workers who have experienced neck pain account for up to 40% of work absenteeism. Cervical radiculopathy, on the other hand, is a condition in which the nerve root of a spinal nerve is compressed or impaired, causing pain and symptoms to spread beyond the neck and radiate to other areas of the body, such as the arms, neck, chest, upper back, and shoulders. Due to the nerve impingement, muscle weakness and impaired deep tendon reflexes are often observed.

Cervical radiculopathy is a common neck disorder that reduces function, productivity, and quality of life. The natural course is generally favorable. However, significant pain, progressive neurologic loss, or myelopathic signs warrant escalation of care.

Publication types

  • Study Guide