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.
Mark Lueck, DC, PT, DPT
Dr. Mark Lueck is a 1997 graduate of Palmer College of Chiropractic and practiced chiropractic for more than 10 years before returning to graduate school. He received his Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from MGH Institute of Health Professions in Boston in 2012, and currently works as a staff physical therapist specializing in outpatient orthopedics at Bay State Physical Therapy in Arlington, Mass.