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.
Anthony Hamm, DC, FACO, DABFP
Dr. Anthony Hamm is in private practice in Goldsboro, N.C. In 2011, he was elected co-chair of the AMA's Health Care Professionals Advisory Committee Review Board and also sits on the Relative Value Scale Update Committee, which helps determine annual Medicare reimbursement rates.