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Understanding and Managing Cervical Radiculopathy: Simple Tips to Feel Better

Writer's picture: LeeAnn Potochney, PT, DPTLeeAnn Potochney, PT, DPT
Physical therapy can help with neck pain at Amplify Physical Therapy & Performance

Cervical radiculopathy, also known as a "pinched nerve," can cause a lot of pain and make it hard to do everyday things. It happens when a nerve in the neck gets squeezed, like from a herniated disc or arthritic changes in the neck, and can cause sensation differences or strength dysfunction. It can cause pain, weakness, or numbness that can spread from the neck to the shoulders, arms, and hands. This blog will explain how to manage this condition using simple, effective methods for different stages: when the pain is new (acute), when it's starting to improve (subacute), and when it lasts a long time (chronic).

 

Acute Phase Management

 

In the acute phase, the pain is very strong. The main goals are to reduce the pain and avoid making it worse.

 

1. Medication

- Pain Relievers: Medications like ibuprofen and other NSAIDs, muscle relaxants, or oral corticosteroids, can help reduce pain and swelling.


2. Physical Therapy

- Rest: Using a soft neck brace for a short time (no more than 1-2 weeks) can help reduce pain by keeping your neck still. But, don't use it for too long because it can make your muscles weak.

- Gentle Movements: Light exercises, or isometric exercises to add in some force to the muscles without movement, and gentle massages can help reduce pain and improve how well you can move your neck.

- Joint Mobilization/Manipulation: In the acute phase, thoracic manipulation is better evidenced than cervical manipulation; however, gentle cervical mobilization can be helpful.


3. Learning About Your Condition

- It's important to learn about cervical radiculopathy and how to avoid activities that make the pain worse. Simple tips for sitting and standing correctly can also help, along with a strength and endurance program.

 

Subacute Phase Management

 

In the subacute phase, the pain is getting better. The focus is on getting stronger and preventing the pain from coming back.

 

1. Physical Therapy

- Exercises: Slowly start doing exercises to make your neck and shoulder muscles stronger and more flexible. These exercises help a lot in reducing pain.

- Manual Therapy: Continuing with thoracic and cervical manipulation and mobilization, gentle massages and movements can help keep improving your neck function.

 

2. Other Treatments

- Heat and Cold Packs: Using warm packs and ice packs can help manage pain and swelling.

- Dry Needling & Electrical Stimulation: Devices that use gentle electrical pulses can help reduce pain and improve muscle function.

 

Chronic Phase Management

 

The chronic phase is when the pain lasts for a long time. The main goal is to manage the pain, improve how you move, and help you feel better overall.

 

1. Regular Exercise

- Exercise Programs: Keep doing exercises that focus on strength, flexibility, and fitness. This helps a lot in managing long-term pain.

- Manual Therapy: Thoracic and cervical manipulation and and mobilization can continue to provide relief and allow for more active movements. Keep using gentle massage and movement techniques to maintain mobility and reduce pain.

 

2. Emotional Support

- Counseling: Talking to a counselor can help you deal with chronic pain and learn how to cope better. Understanding that pain is an output and not solely relative to structural changes can improve awareness of managing symptoms.

 

3. Advanced Treatments

- Surgery: If other treatments don't work and the pain is very bad, surgeons might suggest surgery to relieve the pressure on the nerve.

 

Conclusion

 

Cervical radiculopathy can cause a lot of discomfort, but with the right approach, you can manage the pain and get back to your normal activities. Using simple and effective methods, healthcare professionals can help you feel better at every stage of this condition. Regular check-ups and a personalized treatment plan are key to feeling your best.

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