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.
Michael Patterson, MSc
Dr. Michael Patterson received his undergraduate and master's degrees in medical biophysics from the University of Western Ontario. He is the research and education manager for Meditech."