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.
Interesting Quote
Long-Term Failure Rates
"Long-term failure rates after operations for back pain are as high as 30% for lumbar arthrodesis and 37% for discectomy."
Source: To reoperate or not? Spine Letter, Volume 4, Number 3.