While cervical disc pathology can unquestionably produce radiculopathy, many patients presenting with arm pain, paresthesia or perceived weakness do not exhibit the clinical behavior of true nerve-root compromise. In these cases, failure to differentiate the primary pain generator may lead to unnecessary spinal injections, nerve ablation procedures or surgical consultation despite limited likelihood of benefit.
I.Q. -- Interesting Quote
Groups such as the Center for the Scientific Investigation of the Paranormal, the Skeptics Society and the National Council Against Health Fraud argue that alternative medicine has no more credibility than astrology, alien abductions or psychic hotlines.
On the other side are advocates, some researchers and many patients, who say that ancient healing systems have evolved gentle, effective methods overlooked by scientific medicine.
"'The stance that there's nothing to alternative therapies and the position that it's just quackery is itself not a scientific position,' said John Astin, a Stanford University health psychologist. "The scientific position is to stay open-minded and examine whether the therapies are safe and potentially useful strategies.'"
Monmaney T, Roan S. Hope or Hype? Los Angeles Times, August 30, 1998.