#064 Exercises for pinched nerve in the neck (Cervical Radiculopathy) and neck pain relief

Summary

This video script provides a comprehensive guide to managing cervical radiculopathy, focusing on exercises and lifestyle adjustments to alleviate pain caused by disc herniation or bone spurs in the neck. It explains symptoms like arm pain, tingling, and weakness, and outlines effective treatments such as medication and specific neck exercises. Key advice includes maintaining proper posture, avoiding aggravating positions, and regularly monitoring progress through a tracking worksheet. The video also highlights the importance of consulting a doctor if symptoms worsen, and offers strategies for managing myofascial pain post-recovery.

Takeaways

• 😀 Relaxing the neck and shoulders is crucial in managing cervical radiculopathy and alleviating nerve root pressure.
• 😀 Performing specific exercises helps reduce tension in the muscles around the cervical spine, aiding the healing process.
• 😀 Proper posture and alignment during exercises are key to decompressing the cervical spine and improving mobility.
• 😀 The exercises should be incorporated into a daily routine for at least 90 days to achieve optimal healing.
• 😀 If symptoms worsen or new symptoms appear (like progressive weakness), consult a doctor immediately.
• 😀 The exercises work by stretching the pectoralis muscles, relaxing the thoracic spine, and supporting the healing of the cervical discs.
• 😀 Myofascial pain syndrome can mimic symptoms of cervical radiculopathy, but the cause is muscle tension, not nerve compression.
• 😀 Trigger points in the scalenes (neck muscles) can cause pain down the shoulder and arm, which may feel like radiculopathy but is different.
• 😀 The C6 brachioradialis reflex remains intact in cases of myofascial pain syndrome, unlike in true radiculopathy.
• 😀 If you experience persistent muscle tension, additional myofascial treatments (like SSAR) may be necessary to fully resolve pain.
• 😀 Consistently monitoring your progress with a worksheet can help track improvements and ensure correct management of the condition.

Q & A

What is cervical radiculopathy?

Cervical radiculopathy is a condition where a nerve in the neck (cervical spine) is pinched or irritated, often due to a herniated disc or bone spurs, causing pain, numbness, and weakness radiating into the shoulder, arm, or hand.

What causes cervical radiculopathy?

Cervical radiculopathy can be caused by a herniated disc, where the disc bulges out and compresses a nerve root, or by bone spurs from osteoarthritis, which can narrow the space where nerves exit the spinal cord.

What are the symptoms of cervical radiculopathy?

Symptoms of cervical radiculopathy include pain, tingling, numbness, and muscle weakness in the neck, shoulder, arm, or hand. It often mimics conditions like C6 radiculopathy but can be differentiated by specific tests and muscle reflexes.

How long does it take for a disc herniation to heal?

A disc herniation typically heals within 90 days with appropriate treatment, which may include medication, physical therapy, and posture correction.

What are the main treatment options for cervical radiculopathy?

The main treatments for cervical radiculopathy include medication (NSAIDs or steroids), physical therapy, posture correction exercises, and avoiding aggravating positions. Surgery is typically reserved for severe cases.

Why is it important to avoid neck collars during recovery?

It is important to avoid neck collars because they can weaken the muscles in the neck over time, hindering recovery. The goal is to strengthen and maintain the natural posture of the neck.

What are some effective exercises for cervical radiculopathy?

Effective exercises include chin tucks, wall angels, neck extension (with or without a towel), isometric neck strengthening, and foam roller relaxation. These exercises help to improve posture, strengthen neck muscles, and relieve tension on the nerves.

How does the 'shoulder abduction sign' help in diagnosing cervical radiculopathy?

The shoulder abduction sign helps diagnose cervical radiculopathy by relieving symptoms. When a patient lifts their arm to the side (abducting), it can reduce pressure on the nerve root, providing temporary pain relief and confirming nerve involvement.

What is myofascial pain syndrome, and how does it relate to cervical radiculopathy?

Myofascial pain syndrome is a condition where muscles, such as the scalenes in the neck, develop trigger points that cause pain radiating into the shoulder, arm, and hand. It can mimic cervical radiculopathy, but unlike radiculopathy, it doesn’t cause nerve damage or weakness.

What should a patient do if their symptoms worsen after 90 days of treatment?

If symptoms worsen or new symptoms appear after 90 days of treatment, the patient should consult their doctor to rule out more serious conditions such as myelopathy or progressive nerve damage. A reassessment of the treatment plan may be needed.