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.