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.
Physiological Therapeutic Modalities: Nervous System Target Sites
Physiological Therapeutic Modalities: Nervous System Target Sites
Modality
Superfical Heat
Cryotherapy
Axial Traction
Massage
Intersegmental Traction
Low Frequency (1-1000 Hz)
Low VoltHigh Volt
Medium Frequency
T.E.N.S.
Acupuncture ---------------------------------------------------------------
Decreased Response From Peripheral Structures
Minimal Increased Threshold of Cutaneous Receptors
Through Spindle Cell Relaxation
Decreases in Motor and Sensory Nerve Conduction Velocity
Analgesia Via Decreases in Muscle Afferent Activity
Minimal Through Muscle Stretch
Through Attenuation of Muscle Stretch Reflexes by Mechanical Massage and Trigger Point Deactivation
Through Attenuation of Muscle Stretch Reflexes by Mechanical Massage and Trigger Point Deactivation
Indirect Through Motor Fatigue" "
Indirect Through Motor Fatigue
Minimal
Minimal --------------------------------------------------
Presynaptic Inhibition
Minimal
Minimal
Yes
Yes
Yes
YesYes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Enkephalin Mediated Pain Control
Minimal
Minimal
No
Minimal
Minimal
YesYes