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.
S. Scott Tauber, DC, DABCO, CPC
Dr. Scott Tauber is the COO and director of education for the American Institute of Personal Injury Physicians (AIPIP), which assists physicians in improving, protecting, growing and marketing their personal-injury practices. He is also a diplomate of the American Board of Chiropractic Orthopedists and a certified professional coder, and can be contacted via email at drscott@aipip.com.