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.
Gary Auerbach, BS, DC
Dr. Gary Auerbach, founding president of the World Federation of Chiropractic, holds a graduate certificate in public health from the University of Arizona, Zuckerman College of Public Health. He is the administrator of the American Indian / Alaska Native Doctors of Chiropractic Ad-Hoc Committee. If you are an American Indian / Alaska Native DC in the U.S., visit www.aiandc.org to learn more."