Which specialist treats cervical radiculopathy?

Cervical radiculopathy happens when a nerve root in the neck becomes irritated or compressed. Neck pain may travel into the shoulder or arm, with hand numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness in a pattern linked to that nerve. A spine specialist checks neck movement, reflexes, sensation, and strength.

A neurologist, neurosurgeon, or physical medicine and rehabilitation physician may also be involved. The clinician may request imaging or nerve testing when symptoms are severe, persistent, atypical, or accompanied by objective weakness. The goal is to locate the source rather than assume every arm symptom starts in the neck.

Arrange an assessment if neck or arm symptoms continue, disturb sleep, or affect reaching, lifting, or hand tasks. Treatment may include activity modification, anti-inflammatory medication when appropriate for your health, and physiotherapy focused on posture, neck movement, and graded strength.

If nerve compression remains troublesome or neurological loss progresses, the specialist may discuss a procedure. Artificial disc replacement is one surgical option for selected patients, but the choice depends on the affected level, imaging, symptoms, and overall spinal health. Do not start neck exercises that reproduce strong arm pain without professional guidance.

Seek urgent assessment for rapidly worsening muscle weakness, difficulty walking, loss of bladder or bowel control, severe symptoms after an injury, or new weakness affecting both arms or legs. Seek emergency help for chest pain or breathlessness. Arrange routine specialist care for persistent neck pain, hand numbness, shoulder weakness, or arm symptoms that limit normal activities.

Ask which nerve root appears involved, whether your strength and reflexes are changing, and whether imaging or nerve testing is needed. Discuss safe activity, medication suitability, physiotherapy goals, and the findings that would lead to a surgical discussion.