Cervical myelopathy and cervical radiculopathy are neurologic conditions originating in the neck and leading to a loss of function. Cervical myelopathy, caused by spinal cord compression, can trigger symptoms in the arms, hands, and legs. In contrast, cervical radiculopathy, often referred to as a “pinched nerve,” occurs when a nerve is compressed.
Treatment for a pinched nerve in the neck may involve using a cervical collar temporarily and a cervical pillow while sleeping. Physical therapy, range-of-motion exercises, and strengthening exercises can hasten pain relief. For severe pain, stronger medications might be prescribed. These conditions usually affect the cervical (neck) or lumbar (lower back) areas, but can occasionally occur in the thoracic (mid-back) spine. Nerve irritation can be intensely painful, with cervical radiculopathy causing burning or tingling sensations in the arms, and lumbar radiculopathy leading to shooting pain in the legs.
Symptoms of a pinched nerve may include worsening pain during certain activities, numbness in specific areas, or weakness in the affected limb. Specific symptoms depend on the affected nerve. For instance, a pinched nerve root in the cervical spine may cause pain, numbness, or tingling in the arms and hands, while in the lumbar spine, it may affect the hips, buttocks, legs, or feet.
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS) is another condition that can cause pain, weakness, numbness, tingling, sensation of coldness, or general discomfort in the upper body. It typically affects the arms, hands, armpits, upper back, neck, and pectoral area. Radiculopathy, a form of pinched nerve, involves pressure on the nerve roots connected to the spine, causing pain and weakness. This pressure can manifest as forearm pain and weakness when the nerve in the neck is affected, or in the lower back or other body parts.
Understanding these conditions is crucial for effective treatment and management. For more detailed information, explore these resources:
University of Utah Health on Cervical Radiculopathy and Myelopathy
Harvard Health on Treating a Pinched Nerve
UC Davis Health on Pinched Nerve and Radiculopathy
For further insights into pinched nerves and related conditions, visit the Ohio State Medical Center and Mayo Clinic websites.
