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
Pharmacological Adjustments?
Consider the following quote from the publication Drug Therapy:
"The combination of cyclobenzaprine (flexoril, a muscle relaxant) and naproxen (an NSAID) was better than naproxen alone in reducing objective muscle spasm and tenderness and increasing motion of the lumbosacral spine."1 (emphasis added)
A question that the author fails to ask is, "What about the cause?"
Reference
1. Borenstein D. Medical therapy of low back pain. Drug Therapy 22(10):93-102, 1992