A chiropractor can help individuals experiencing a pinched nerve in the neck, medically known as cervical radiculopathy. This conservative, non-surgical approach focuses on alleviating nerve pressure and restoring function. This article details the nature of the condition, the chiropractic assessment, specific treatments utilized, and expected outcomes.
What is a Pinched Nerve in the Neck
Cervical radiculopathy, or a pinched nerve in the neck, occurs when a nerve root near the spinal cord becomes compressed or irritated. The cervical spine consists of seven vertebrae, and nerve roots exit through openings between these bones. When these openings narrow or surrounding tissue presses on the nerve, it disrupts nerve signaling, leading to symptoms.
Symptoms often radiate away from the neck along the path of the affected nerve. This radiating pain is typically sharp, burning, or electrical, traveling down the shoulder, arm, and into the hand or fingers. Additional neurological symptoms include tingling, numbness, or a “pins and needles” sensation. In severe cases, patients may notice muscle weakness in the shoulder, arm, or hand, indicating a loss of motor function.
Compression typically results from two main physical causes. Age-related degenerative changes often lead to reduced disc height and the formation of bone spurs, narrowing the space where the nerve exits. Alternatively, trauma can cause a herniated disc, where the inner material pushes out and directly presses on the nerve root. These changes physically impinge on the nerve, causing inflammation.
Initial Assessment by a Chiropractor
The initial assessment confirms the diagnosis and determines if the condition is suitable for conservative care. The process begins with a detailed history, including the onset, duration, severity of symptoms, and any mechanism of injury. This history helps localize the affected nerve level and differentiate cervical radiculopathy from other causes of arm pain, such as carpal tunnel syndrome.
The physical examination evaluates the patient’s posture and neck range of motion to see if movements worsen radiating symptoms. Orthopedic tests are performed, such as the Spurling’s maneuver, where the chiropractor gently compresses the head while tilting it to the symptomatic side. A positive result, indicated by the recreation of arm pain, suggests nerve root compression.
A neurological examination assesses nerve function integrity by testing muscle strength, checking sensation changes, and evaluating deep tendon reflexes. These tests identify the specific nerve root involved, as each root supplies a predictable pattern of function. If the chiropractor suspects underlying pathology like a fracture, tumor, or severe progressive neurological deficit, they may request diagnostic imaging or refer the patient to a medical specialist.
Chiropractic Treatment Methods
Chiropractic care focuses on non-invasive techniques aimed at decreasing nerve irritation and restoring spinal function. Cervical manipulation, or an adjustment, uses a controlled force to restore proper joint mobility in the spine. This improves the alignment and movement of the vertebrae, which helps reduce pressure on the affected nerve root.
Gentle mobilization techniques, involving slower, controlled movements, are used when manipulation may be too forceful. Mechanical traction or spinal decompression therapy is also used for nerve compression. This involves specialized equipment that gently stretches the neck, separating the vertebrae to create negative pressure. This action helps decompress the disc and increase the space around the nerve root.
Chiropractors incorporate soft tissue therapies to address muscle tension and spasms. Techniques like massage, trigger point therapy, and myofascial release relax tight muscles in the neck and upper back. Rehabilitative exercises are prescribed as home care to strengthen supporting neck muscles and improve postural habits.
Safety Considerations and Outcomes
Chiropractic management for cervical radiculopathy is a safe, conservative treatment that often produces favorable outcomes. When spinal manipulation is performed appropriately, risks are low, with common side effects being mild soreness that resolves within 24 hours. Studies show that a combined approach, including manipulation, soft tissue work, and exercise, can resolve primary symptoms in a significant percentage of cases.
Patients often experience symptom improvement within the first week of treatment, though a full course of care may take several weeks. The number of treatment sessions varies based on the severity and duration of the condition, with an average trial involving around nine treatments. Specific instances, known as “red flags,” require immediate referral to a medical doctor or specialist.
These warning signs include progressive neurological deficits, such as rapidly worsening muscle weakness, or changes in bowel or bladder function. While conservative care is effective for most cases, conditions like advanced spinal cord compression or suspected fractures require immediate medical intervention. The chiropractor’s role involves careful screening to ensure the patient receives the most appropriate care.