Could Your Neck Pain Be Cervical Radiculopathy?
Neck pain is a common reason why patients visit the Chiropractic Wellness Center in Oxnard, CA. Here, Dr. David Lemons can provide you with an accurate diagnosis and a treatment plan designed to provide rapid pain relief and long-term wellness. If you have neck pain that radiates down your arm and hand, and that also causes headaches, you might have cervical radiculopathy.
What Is Cervical Radiculopathy?
Cervical radiculopathy refers to a pinched nerve in the neck. This leads to neurological dysfunction that causes your painful symptoms. To understand how this occurs, it’s helpful to have a basic understanding of the anatomy of your neck.
Your cervical spine, or the neck region, has seven vertebrae (bones). The vertebrae protect the spinal cord. They are separated from each other by intervertebral discs, which act like cushions to provide shock absorption, as well as flexibility. Your spine also has many nerve roots that extend outward to other parts of the body.
Cervical radiculopathy occurs when one of those nerve roots becomes compressed and inflamed. This can sometimes occur due to age-related degenerative changes of the spine. A pinched nerve can also be caused by a herniated disc. Disc herniation occurs when the softer material on the inside of the disc protrudes through to the exterior. That material can then press against a nerve root.
Do You Have a Pinched Nerve?
The pain from a pinched nerve can feel sharp or like a burning sensation, and moving the head may worsen it. The pain may extend down from your neck into your arm and even into your hand. It can also cause:
- Tingling and numbness
- Muscle weakness
- Poor reflexes
How Dr. Lemons Can Help
Chiropractors have extensive knowledge of the musculoskeletal system, particularly the spine. Dr. Lemons can address the anatomical abnormalities that lead to the compression of the nerve root, targeting the underlying cause of your symptoms instead of merely masking the pain. He may recommend various treatment modalities for a pinched nerve, such as chiropractic adjustments to align the vertebrae, massage therapy, therapeutic stretching, and spinal decompression.
Restore Your Health at the Chiropractic Wellness Center
Dr. David Lemons at the Chiropractic Wellness Center offers comprehensive chiropractic care for patients with all types of neck pain. Whether you have cervical radiculopathy or another medical issue, Dr. Lemons can perform a thorough evaluation and customize a treatment plan that’s right for you. Schedule an appointment today at our chiropractic clinic in Oxnard, CA and look forward to living life pain-free.
Posted In:
Chiropractic
Neck Pain
