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.
Andrew Varaday, MD, DABR
Andrew Varaday, MD, is director of diagnostic radiology at Steeplechase Diagnostic Imaging in Houston. He graduated from the University of Texas at Houston Medical School in 1981.