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.
Marlene Icenhower, BSN, JD, CPHRM
Marlene Icenhower is a senior risk specialist at medical professional liability insurance company Coverys and a fellow of the American Society for Healthcare Risk Management (FASHRM). She graduated from St. Louis University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (1984) and a Juris Doctor (law, 1987).