CERVICAL RADICULOPATHY

What is Cervical Rediculopathy?

Cervical radiculopathy is a condition that occurs when a nerve root in the cervical spine becomes compressed or irritated. As a result, the neck may radiate pain, weakness, numbness, or altered feeling to the hand, arm, or shoulder. At Elite Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Centre, we use cutting-edge physiotherapy methods and premium treatment modalities to diagnose and treat cervical radiculopathy.

Causes of Cervical Radiculopathy

Cervical radiculopathy is most commonly caused by:

  • Cervical disc herniation
  • Degenerative conditions such cervical spondylosis or osteoarthritis
  • Osteophytes, or bone spurs, impinging on nerve roots
  • Traumatic injuries sustained in accidents or sports
  • Bad posture and extended bending of the neck
  • repetitive strain injuries brought on by sports or ergonomics at work

These factors can compress or inflame the cervical nerve roots, triggering neurological symptoms.

The nerve root may get crushed if the cervical disc protrudes or if degenerative changes take place. Normal nerve function is disrupted by this mechanical compression and the inflammatory reaction that goes along with it. Trauma can make the process worse by causing abrupt movement or direct force, which can result in spinal misalignment or disc bulging.

Clinical Features and Symptoms

Cervical radiculopathy presents with:

  • Burning or sharp neck pain that spreads to the hand or arm
  • Tingling or numbness in particular dermatomal patterns
  • Weakening of the muscles in the affected myotomes
  • Diminished brachioradialis, triceps, or biceps reflexes
  • Restricted cervical range of motion
  • Symptoms that are exacerbated by neck motions like rotation or extension

Diagnosis at Elite Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Centre

We follow a comprehensive, hands-on assessment approach:

  • Taking a thorough medical history to determine the beginning, aggravating, and relieving factors
  • Analyzing posture to spot abnormalities that could be causing nerve compression
  • Functional assessments to look at compensatory patterns and movement constraints

Special orthopedic physiotherapy tests we use include:

  • Spurling’s Test: Replicating arm pain by rotating and extending the neck while applying pressure
  • Shoulder Abduction Relief Sign: When the hand is placed on the head, the symptoms go away.
  • The Upper Limb Tension Test (ULTT): It measures the upper extremities’ neuronal tension.
  • Cervical Distraction Test: Nerve root compression is indicated by symptom alleviation with mild traction.
  • Deep tendon reflex testing and myotomal strength assessment: To determine which nerve roots are affected.

We advise an MRI or X-ray if necessary to validate the clinical results.

Physiotherapy Management at Elite Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Centre

Our centres at various location in Delhi & NCR offers personalized physiotherapy care for cervical radiculopathy. We use evidence-based protocols and modern therapeutic technology to ensure optimal outcomes.

Manual Therapy

  • Decompression of nerve roots with manual or mechanical cervical traction
  • Restoring segmental alignment and mobility through joint mobilizations
  • Release of soft tissue for adjacent muscles, such as the levator scapulae, scalenes, and upper trapezius
  • Neural mobilizations to enhance mobility and lessen nerve stress

Therapeutic Exercise

  • To stabilize the neck, strengthen the deep cervical flexors.
  • Exercises for postural adjustment to lessen mechanical stress
  • Stabilization of the scapula to support the upper back
  • Stretching gently for muscles that are shortened, including the pectorals and upper trapezius
  • Depending on personal deficiencies, strengthening weak muscles

Postural and Ergonomic Training

We guide patients in adopting proper workstation ergonomics, sleeping positions, and posture correction techniques for daily living.

Advanced Modalities at Elite Physiotherapy

We integrate cutting-edge modalities to accelerate healing, reduce pain, and enhance recovery:

High-Intensity Class IV Laser Therapy

  • This therapy provides deep tissue penetration and stimulates cellular repair. It reduces inflammation and improves nerve function.

CRET Therapy (Capacitive Resistive Electric Transfer)

  • CRET improves local blood circulation and tissue healing. It’s effective in reducing muscle tightness and promoting nerve recovery.

Super Inductive System (SIS)

  • SIS provides high-intensity electromagnetic stimulation. It helps with pain relief, muscle activation, and reduction of nerve irritation.

Shock Wave Therapy (Radial)

  • Used selectively when muscle spasm and myofascial pain are present. It promotes circulation and desensitizes trigger points.

Cryotherapy

  • Useful in acute phases to reduce inflammation and relieve nerve pain. We use localized ice therapy for safe and targeted cooling.

Electrotherapy

  • TENS and Interferential Therapy (IFT) help reduce pain and modulate nerve irritation without side effects.

Why Choose Elite Physiotherapy for Cervical Radiculopathy?

  • Expertise in sports and spinal injuries
  • Personalized one-on-one sessions with certified physiotherapists
  • Advanced physiotherapy devices and modalities
  • Emphasis on correcting the root cause, not just symptom relief
  • Integration of manual therapy, functional rehab, and neurodynamics
  • Clean, professional, and athlete-friendly environment

Conclusion

If left untreated, cervical radiculopathy can significantly impair quality of life. At Elite Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Centre, we provide long-lasting comfort and healing by combining clinical knowledge with cutting-edge rehabilitation equipment. We customize your treatment plan to meet your unique needs and objectives, whether you work in an office or are an athlete.

Visit our clinic or explore more at www.elitephysiotherapy.in to book your consultation today and take the first step toward a pain-free neck and stronger spine.

CERVICAL DISC HERNIATION

Introduction

Cervical disc herniation is a prevalent condition that can significantly impact daily life. Our specialty at Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre is offering thorough, non-invasive pain relief and function restoration therapies. Focusing on the cutting-edge modalities offered at our facility, this study explores the causes, mechanisms, clinical characteristics, diagnostic techniques, and physiotherapy management of cervical disc herniation. ​

Understanding Cervical Disc Herniation

Intervertebral discs, which serve as cushions and promote mobility, divide the seven vertebrae that make up the cervical spine. When the nucleus pulposus, the gel-like center, pushes through a rupture in the annulus fibrosus, the tough outer layer, it might cause a cervical disc herniation, which could compress the spinal cord or neighboring nerve roots. ​

Causes

Common causes of cervical disc herniation include:​

  • Disc Degeneration: Dehydration and a lack of disc elasticity brought on by age-related wear and tear might make discs more prone to tearing. ​
  • Trauma: Abrupt injuries, such as whiplash from falls or auto accidents, can result in disc herniation right away. ​
  • Repetitive Stress: Over time, repetitive neck motions or bad posture can cause constant tension that can lead to disc injury. ​

Mechanism of Injury

An excessive amount of pressure or tension on the cervical spine usually results in tears in the annulus fibrosus, which is the mechanism of damage. This makes it possible for the nucleus pulposus to herniate, which could compress the spinal cord or nerve roots and cause neurological symptoms. ​

Clinical Features

Individuals with cervical disc herniation may experience:​

  • Neck Pain: A localized ache that could get worse when you move. ​
  • Radicular Pain: Severe, shooting pain that travels down the arm, hand, or shoulder from the neck. ​
  • Numbness and Tingling: Pins-and-needles sensations in the afflicted arm or fingers. ​
  • Muscle Weakness: Inability to hold or lift objects because of weak hand or arm muscles. ​
  • Reduced Range of Motion: Neck stiffness and restricted motion. ​

Diagnostic Methods at Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre

To properly diagnose cervical disc herniation, a comprehensive physical and functional evaluation is carried out at our clinic, including specialized physiotherapy tests. These evaluations could consist of: ​

  • Spurling’s Test: Reproducing symptoms of nerve root compression by gently pressing on the head. ​
  • The cervical distraction test: Involves gently raising the head to check for symptoms that could indicate nerve root involvement. ​
  • Upper Limb Tension Tests: Evaluating the sensitivity and mobility of the upper limbs’ nerves. ​
  • Manual Muscle Testing: Assessing muscle strength manually to pinpoint particular deficiencies linked to nerve compression. ​

These tests help in formulating a personalized treatment plan tailored to the patient’s specific condition.​

Physiotherapy Management at Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre

Our approach focuses on alleviating pain, improving mobility, and preventing recurrence through a combination of advanced physiotherapy techniques and modalities.​

Pain Management

  • Manual therapy: Techniques for gently mobilizing the spine to improve mobility and lessen pain. ​
  • Electrotherapy: Pain relief through the use of techniques such as transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS). ​

Advanced Modalities

We offer state-of-the-art treatments to enhance recovery:​

  • Shock Wave Therapy: Non-invasive pulses help injured areas heal and feel less pain. ​
  • Super Inductive System: High-intensity electromagnetic fields are used in the Super Inductive System to reduce pain and encourage tissue regeneration. ​
  • High-Intensity Class 4 LaserLaser therapy is delivered by a high-intensity class 4 laser, which speeds up healing and reduces inflammation. ​
  • Hydrotherapy: Exercises using water to gradually increase strength and flexibility without putting undue strain on the cervical spine. ​
  • Cryotherapy: Using cold therapy to reduce inflammation and numb painful tissues. ​

Therapeutic Exercises

  • A customized exercise program is designed to strengthen neck and shoulder muscles, improve posture, and enhance flexibility. These exercises aim to support the cervical spine and reduce the risk of future injuries.​

Ergonomic and Postural Training

Education on maintaining proper posture during daily activities and ergonomic adjustments to workstations to minimize strain on the neck.​

conclusion

At Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre, our multidisciplinary team is dedicated to delivering personalized care using the latest advancements in physiotherapy. Our goal is to help patients achieve optimal recovery and prevent future occurrences of cervical disc herniation.​