What causes cervical radiculopathy?

Nerve roots leave the spinal canal through small openings between the neck bones. Cervical spondylosis may narrow one of these openings through disc wear or bony change. A herniated disc can also press on or inflame a nearby root. The affected root helps determine where pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness is felt.

Symptoms may change with neck position because movement can alter pressure around the irritated root. The same pattern can sometimes come from inflammation rather than a fixed blockage, so an examination is needed to identify the likely source.

A clinician can check neck movement, reflexes, sensation, and strength in the shoulder, arm, and hand. Keep track of what brings symptoms on and whether grip or arm function is declining. Treatment may involve activity adjustments, pain relief, targeted exercises, or further assessment depending on the findings.

Seek prompt medical care for worsening arm or hand weakness, trouble using the hand, severe symptoms after an injury, or symptoms in both arms or legs. New balance problems or bladder and bowel changes need urgent assessment because they can indicate spinal cord involvement rather than an isolated nerve-root problem.

Ask which nerve root may be involved, whether the findings fit spondylosis or a disc problem, and whether imaging or nerve testing is appropriate. Ask which movements are safe and what change in strength should trigger urgent review.