Nerves controlling the shoulder, arm and hand originate in the spinal cord in the neck. Inflammation or compression of one of these structures is known as a pinched nerve or cervical. Symptoms of a pinched nerve include pain, weakness and loss of movement in the neck.
The cause of injury will most likely be the herniated disc pressing on a nerve or irritation of the nerve due to repetitive stress.
A pinched nerve occurs when a disc from one of the cervical vertebrae presses against one of the spinal nerves emerging from the spinal cord. These nerves branch out to numerous areas of the body and symptoms may radiate from the source along the nerve to areas where the nerve travels.
Given proper treatment, the prognosis for cervical radiculitis is generally good. Mild cases usually respond to physical therapy with medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS). Following healing, a program of physical therapy and flexibility/strengthening exercises can help restore the individual’s former condition. Attention to proper technique particularly during weight training/weightlifting can help prevent pinched nerve injury.
Inflammation and pain associated with pinched nerves may continue or worsen if the injury does not get addressed. The nerve then may become permanently damaged through continued pressure and stress, and the condition may point to other (potentially serious) underlying injures to the vertebrae or spinal cord.
*Disclaimer
Our therapists provide injury treatment, advice, prevention, and rehabilitation exercises through sports massage, deep tissue massage, exercise programming and physiotherapy.
We provide educational content for informational purposes only. Aways seek a medical professionals care and advice regarding injuries.