If you’ve ever experienced sharp pain, tingling, or numbness radiating from your neck into your shoulder, arm, or hand, you may be dealing with cervical radiculopathy—commonly known as a “pinched nerve” in the neck.
What Is Cervical Radiculopathy?
Cervical radiculopathy occurs when a nerve in your neck becomes irritated or compressed where it branches out from the spinal cord. This pressure disrupts normal nerve function and can cause symptoms such as:
Neck pain or stiffness
Radiating pain into the shoulder, arm, or hand
Tingling or numbness in the fingers
Muscle weakness in the arm or hand
Common causes include:
Disc herniation: When a disc bulges and presses on a nerve root.
Arthritis or bone spurs: These can narrow the space where nerves exit the spine.
Poor posture or repetitive strain: Over time, this can place extra stress on the cervical spine.
How Can Physical Therapy Help?
Physical therapy is one of the most effective non-surgical treatments for cervical radiculopathy. A skilled PT can help by:
Reducing Pain and Inflammation
Gentle manual therapy, soft tissue work, and modalities such as heat, ice, or traction can ease irritation around the affected nerve.
Improving Posture and Alignment
Postural correction exercises help relieve pressure on the cervical spine and improve how your neck supports your head and shoulders.
Restoring Neck and Shoulder Mobility
Stretching and mobility exercises target tight muscles and joints, helping you move with less pain.
Building Strength and Stability
Strengthening the deep neck flexors, upper back, and shoulder muscles provides better support for your spine, reducing the risk of future flare-ups.
Nerve Gliding Exercises
Specific stretches (called nerve glides or nerve flossing) can help restore normal nerve movement and reduce tingling or numbness.
When to See a Physical Therapist
If your neck pain radiates into your arm, or if you notice weakness or numbness, it’s best to see a healthcare professional. Early physical therapy can prevent the condition from worsening and help you recover faster.
Cervical radiculopathy can be painful and limit your daily activities, but physical therapy offers a safe and effective path to recovery. With personalized exercises, postural training, and hands-on care, you can reduce pain, restore motion, and get back to feeling your best. Contact our office at 480-785-5415 to if you have questions about your cervical radiculopathy.