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.
Jeffrey Fitzthum, DC, MD, MPH
Dr. Jeffrey Fitzthum maintains a private practice in Seattle, Wash., focusing on treating work-related injuries and performing forensic evaluations of motor vehicle injuries. He is also the physiatry consultant for a multidisciplinary chiropractic-owned clinic. Dr. Fitzthum has served as clinical instructor and clinic director at Western States Chiropractic College; assistant professor and clinical instructor in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at the University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics; and Clinic Director of the University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics Pain Clinic.