How effective is physiotherapy for cervical radiculopathy?

Cervical radiculopathy occurs when a nerve root in the neck is irritated or compressed, causing neck pain that may travel into the shoulder, arm or hand. A physiotherapist can examine neck movement, reflexes, strength and sensation before selecting treatment. Depending on the findings, the plan may include comfortable movement, posture and activity changes, strengthening of the neck and shoulder muscles, and techniques that reduce strain on the nerve. Symptoms can fluctuate, so the aim is improved function and control rather than forcing painful movements.

Follow the exact direction and range given for home exercises. Change position often during screen work and support the arm if that reduces symptoms. Keep a simple record of which movements ease or spread symptoms, since this helps refine treatment. Avoid self-directed forceful neck manipulation or exercises that cause increasing arm pain, weakness or numbness. Your clinician may combine physiotherapy with medication or imaging depending on the examination.

Seek urgent assessment for rapidly increasing arm or hand weakness, trouble walking, loss of coordination, or new problems controlling bladder or bowel function. Immediate care is also appropriate after major neck trauma. Contact your clinician promptly if numbness is spreading, pain is severe and unrelenting, or symptoms are not settling with the agreed plan.

Which nerve-root signs are present on my examination? What movements should I avoid temporarily? How should I respond if pain travels farther down the arm during an exercise? When would imaging or a specialist review change the plan?