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.
Brett Winchester, DC, FASBE(C), DAAPM, DAAMLP
Dr. Brett Winchester, a graduate of Logan College of Chiropractic, is an advanced biomechanics course instructor at Logan; instructor and board member for the Motion Palpation Institute; and a founding partner of Winchester-Hilgefort Spine and Joint Center outside St. Louis. He lectures worldwide on functional treatment that combines manual therapy, including joint manipulation and neuromuscular stabilization with therapeutic exercise. Dr. Winchester can be contacted at drwinchester@whsjc.com.