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.
John Ventura, DC, DABCO
Dr. John Ventura, a National College of Chiropractic graduate, is a clinical instructor in family medicine at the University of Rochester School of Medicine. Dr. Ventura participated with the NCQA Back Pain Recognition Program pilot project, has NCQA recognized status and worked with a large HMO plan to implement NCQA BPRP for its chiropractic providers. He is a partner at Spine Care Partners, LLC, and Primary Spine Provider Network, LLC.