Cervical Radiculopathy (Pinched Nerve in the Neck) – Bromley Sports Injury Clinic

Key Points

Cervical radiculopathy occurs when a nerve root in the neck is compressed or irritated, often by a disc problem or arthritis.
Symptoms include neck pain, tingling, numbness, and weakness radiating into the arm or hand.
It is often confused with shoulder, elbow, or wrist problems such as carpal tunnel syndrome.
At Bromley Sports Injury Clinic, we provide expert assessment and treatment to relieve symptoms and guide safe recovery.

What is Cervical Radiculopathy?

The cervical spine (neck) has seven vertebrae, separated by discs and surrounded by joints, ligaments, and muscles.

Cervical radiculopathy happens when a nerve root becomes compressed or irritated, usually due to:

Disc herniation (slipped disc)
Degenerative changes / arthritis narrowing the nerve passage
Bone spurs
Trauma or injury

This irritation disrupts the nerve signals, producing pain and neurological symptoms down the arm.

Symptoms of Cervical Radiculopathy

Pain radiating from the neck into the shoulder, arm, or hand
Tingling, pins and needles, or numbness in the arm/fingers
Muscle weakness in the arm or hand
Reduced grip strength
Neck stiffness or restricted movement
Symptoms worsen with certain neck positions (looking up, turning head)

Causes & Risk Factors

Disc herniation (more common under 50)
Arthritis/spondylosis narrowing the foramen (more common over 50)
Poor posture (desk-based work, forward head position)
Repetitive strain or heavy lifting
Whiplash or previous neck injury
Metabolic health issues (diabetes, thyroid) affecting nerve health

Diagnosis of Cervical Radiculopathy

At Bromley Sports Injury Clinic, diagnosis may include:

Osteopathic assessment – movement testing, neurological checks, muscle strength, reflexes
Clinical provocation tests – e.g. Spurling’s test, nerve tension testing
Referral – MRI or nerve conduction studies if symptoms are severe, persistent, or red flags are present
Blood tests – sometimes used to explore underlying contributors like diabetes or thyroid issues

Self-Help for Cervical Radiculopathy

Avoid positions that worsen nerve compression (e.g. prolonged looking up or carrying heavy weights on shoulders)
Use ergonomic supports (desk adjustments, monitor height, supportive pillows)
Gentle mobility and posture exercises
Heat or ice for symptom relief
Short rest breaks from desk work or phone use

Treatment Options at Bromley Sports Injury Clinic

✅ Osteopathic care – mobilisation of the cervical spine and surrounding joints to reduce pressure on nerves
✅ Exercise rehabilitation – posture correction, deep neck flexor strengthening, nerve mobility exercises
✅ Sports massage – soft tissue release for neck, shoulder, and upper back muscles
✅ Blood testing – screens for systemic contributors to nerve recovery
✅ Referral pathways – MRI, nerve conduction testing, or specialist input when indicated

Prevention

Maintain upright posture at work and on devices
Strengthen postural muscles (neck, shoulders, upper back)
Avoid prolonged static positions without breaks
Vary positions when sitting or working
Address early neck stiffness before it worsens

FAQs – Cervical Radiculopathy

Q: Is a pinched nerve the same as radiculopathy?
Yes. Radiculopathy simply means a nerve root in the spine is compressed or irritated.

Q: Do I always need an MRI?
Not always. Many cases can be diagnosed with clinical assessment. MRI is used if symptoms persist or are severe.

Q: Can it get better without surgery?
Yes. Many patients improve with conservative care such as osteopathy, exercise, and posture correction.

Q: Why might blood tests be relevant?
Because conditions like diabetes and thyroid problems can affect nerve health and slow recovery.

Book Your Appointment

Don’t let neck and nerve pain limit your daily life. Book your cervical radiculopathy assessment in Bromley today for expert diagnosis, tailored treatment, and referral if required.

📍 Bromley Sports Injury Clinic | Same-week appointments available

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