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.
Dean Nelson, DC
Dr. Dean Nelson practices in Kailua, Hawaii, where he started a clinic based on the belief that holistic health care should be the center of a community. He can be contacted with questions and comments regarding this article at drdeanhawaii@mac.com.