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.
Richard Beck, DC
Dr. Richard W. Beck, a 1980 graduate of Life University, is in private practice in Danbury, Conn. Contact Dr. Beck with questions and comments regarding this article at beckrw@aol.com.