Cervical radiculopathy is a clinical condition in which a patient presents with unilateral arm pain, numbness or tingling sensation. In severe cases, one might even experience muscle weakness in the affected arm.
This is caused by compression of the spinal nerves in the neck. Compression can be due to the presence of bone spurs, disc herniation or both. This condition tends to affect patients in their 50s. Apart from unilateral arm symptoms, patients may also experience neckache or neck stiffness.
Cervical radiculopathy can be caused by various factors leading to pressure on the spinal cord in the neck:
As people age, spinal discs can lose their cushioning and flexibility, leading to disc degeneration and narrowing of the spaces between vertebrae (intervertebral foramina) where nerves exit the spine. This causes compression of the spinal nerves in the neck.
Sudden force: A fall, blow to the neck, violent twisting motion, or rear-end car accidents resulting in whiplash.
Repetitive Strain and Poor Posture: Prolonged poor posture, such as hunching over a computer or phone, can strain neck muscles and contribute to pain.
The soft, gel-like centre of a spinal disc may sometimes rupture or bulge, pressing on a nerve root in the cervical area.
Bone spurs, or osteophytes, can develop as a result of arthritis or spinal injury, potentially impinging on nerve roots.
Thickened ligaments can also narrow the spinal canal, compressing the spinal cord.
In most cases, the diagnosis can be ascertained by taking a detailed clinical history and performing a thorough physical examination. Most patients tend to have exacerbation of their arm symptoms when they bend their neck sideways to the affected side and symptoms improve when they raise their arms to relieve the compression of the affected spinal nerves.
To confirm the diagnosis, a MRI scan is needed to look out for the level and location of the neurological compression.
Your doctor will assess your posture, movement, and strength to evaluate how your spine and muscles are functioning.
An X-ray helps detect signs of fractures, degenerative changes, or issues in the bones of the spine.
An MRI provides detailed images of soft tissues like discs, muscles, and nerves, helping identify conditions such as herniated discs or nerve compression.
A CT scan allows us to visualize the bones more clearly.
Most patients tend to improve with conservative management. They will often be prescribed a course of analgesia, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, and physiotherapy.
Surgery is recommended for the following reasons:
(a) No improvement in a patient’s condition despite physiotherapy
(b) Severe symptoms that are affecting one’s quality of life
(c) Muscle weakness in the affected arm
The commonest types of surgery performed for patients with cervical radiculopathy are anterior cervical discectomy and arthroplasty (Figure A), which is motion preserving, and anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (Figure B). These procedures yield very good results and patients are usually discharged the very next day after surgery.
There are a variety of pain treatment options available, ranging from non-surgical methods to surgery, depending on the severity of your condition.
In some cases, surgery may be necessary if other treatments have not provided sufficient relief or if you are suffering from conditions such as a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or severe nerve compression. Surgical options might include:
We work closely with trusted insurance partners to make your treatment seamless. Contact us, and we’ll guide you through the process at every step of the way.
Dr. Marcus Ling is a Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon with a special focus on minimally invasive and motion-preserving spinal surgery. A dedicated clinician and educator, he has led advancements in spinal care while mentoring future surgeons. Known for his compassionate approach, he prioritises patient well-being, ensuring expert, personalised treatment for every individual. Dr. Ling is also one of the few surgeons that can perform awake spinal fusion without the need for general anaesthesia. This approach minimises downtime, allowing patients to be discharged within 24 hours of surgery when possible.
Reach out to our team today to explore your treatment options, schedule an appointment and start your journey towards enhanced health and mobility.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
ADDRESS:Gleneagles Hospital
6A Napier Road #03-43/44
Gleneagles Annex Block
Singapore 258500
CONTACT
OPERATING HOURS:Mon to Fri : 9.00am – 5.00pm
Sat : 9.00am – 12.00pm
Closed on Sunday and Public Holidays
