Réhabital
Pinched Nerve in the Neck (Cervical Radiculopathy) Treatment
Pain travelling from the neck into the shoulder, arm or fingers, often with tingling or weakness, points to an irritated cervical nerve root. The large majority of these cases settle without surgery when managed properly.
Book an AppointmentUnderstanding This Condition
Cervical radiculopathy occurs when a nerve root is compressed or chemically irritated as it exits the cervical spine, most often from a disc herniation, foraminal arthritis or local inflammation. The C6 and C7 roots are the most commonly involved, which is why symptoms typically reach the thumb, index or middle finger. The pain follows a defined path rather than a diffuse area, and it usually worsens with neck extension and rotation toward the painful side.
Common Symptoms
Common Causes
Cervical disc herniation
Disc material compresses and chemically irritates the nerve root.
Foraminal arthritis
Bony narrowing of the exit canal reduces the space available for the nerve.
Sustained postures
Screen work and phone use hold the neck in a loaded position for hours.
Trauma or whiplash
A cervical sprain can trigger secondary nerve root irritation.
Our Treatment Approach
We first confirm the involved level with neurological testing (reflexes, strength, sensation) and provocation tests such as Spurling's. Treatment combines gentle manual cervical traction, mobilisation of the cervical segments and first rib, soft tissue work on the upper trapezius and scalenes, then progressive nerve gliding exercises. In parallel we strengthen the deep neck flexors and scapular stabilisers, since poor scapular control keeps neural tension high. Osteopathy releases upper thoracic restrictions that limit cervical motion, and acupuncture can help calm the inflammatory pain component.
What to Expect at Your First Visit
A 60 minute first visit with a full neurological screen. Most patients notice pain centralising (the arm clears before the neck) within three to six weeks.
At-Home Self-Care Tips
- Avoid prolonged neck extension positions.
- Set the screen at eye height and keep the keyboard close.
- Sleep with a pillow that supports the neck curve.
- Perform nerve glides without ever provoking sharp pain.
- Walk regularly instead of staying still.
Prognosis & Recovery Timeline
Roughly 75 to 90 percent of cervical radiculopathies improve substantially within three months of conservative care. Progressive weakness or walking difficulty warrants urgent medical assessment.
When to See Us at Réhabital
Come in if arm pain has lasted more than a week, or immediately if you have marked weakness, loss of dexterity or symptoms in both hands.
Why Réhabital Clinic
Our physiotherapists and osteopaths address the neck, first rib and shoulder girdle together rather than the painful segment alone.
Recommended Services for This Condition
Our Core Treatments in Côte Saint-Luc
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Frequently Asked Questions
Address
D4-5800 Cavendish Blvd
Côte Saint-Luc, QC H4W 2T5
Phone
(438) 842-3550Hours
Mon–Fri: 10AM–8PM
Sun: 10AM–4PM
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