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.
V. Robert Agostino, EdD
Dr. V. Robert Agostino owns the knee in this case study and assisted as co-author. Recently retired from the Duquesne University School of Education, he broadened his interests from social science education to chiropractic education.