Cervical radiculopathy, also known as a pinched nerve, occurs when the nerves exiting the spinal cord in the neck are compressed or irritated. This medical condition can result in pain, numbness and weakness that radiates down to the arm. This can greatly impact an individual’s daily activities and it’s natural to wonder how long the condition will last. In this blog post, we will discuss the duration of cervical radiculopathy, the treatment options available and how physiotherapy and chiropractic care can help alleviate the symptoms.
The duration of cervical radiculopathy depends on various factors such as the underlying cause, severity of the condition, and type of treatment administered. In mild cases, the symptoms may resolve on their own after a few weeks. However, in more severe cases, the treatment may be required to relieve the pain and discomfort, and the recovery period may last for several weeks or even months.
The treatment of cervical radiculopathy varies from conservative to surgical intervention. Conservative treatments involve non-invasive methods such as physiotherapy, chiropractic care, and medication to alleviate the symptoms. Physiotherapy helps reduce neck pain, improve range of motion, and strengthen the neck and shoulder muscles. Chiropractic care uses manual techniques such as spinal adjustments and mobilization to decrease pain and increase joint mobility. It also emphasizes posture and exercise to help the patient’s nervous system function correctly. While surgical intervention is required when conservative measures fail to provide relief or in cases of severe injury, it is still essential to consult with a healthcare professional before undergoing any form of intervention.
The duration of physiotherapy treatment for cervical radiculopathy depends on the severity of the condition and the patient’s response to treatment. Typically, the treatment length ranges from 6 to 12 weeks, with 2 to 3 sessions per week. The physiotherapist will design a treatment plan that includes manual techniques, stretching and mobilization exercises, and strengthening exercises to improve the patient’s flexibility, range of motion, and muscle endurance in the neck and shoulder region. The frequency of sessions may change depending on how the patient responds to treatment.
Chiropractic care for cervical radiculopathy can last from several weeks to months, depending on the severity of the condition and the patient’s response to treatment. The chiropractor will conduct a comprehensive examination to determine the cause of the condition. Afterward, manual techniques such as spinal adjustments and mobilization are employed to alleviate the pain and discomfort. The chiropractor may also include exercise and stretching to improve posture and alleviate pressure on the nerves.
In conclusion, cervical radiculopathy is a common condition that can greatly affect individuals’ daily activities. While the duration of the condition depends on various factors, the treatment’s primary goal is to alleviate the symptoms, improve the patient’s range of motion and muscle strength and help them restore function. Physiotherapy, chiropractic care, and other conservative interventions are effective in treating cervical radiculopathy, and patients should seek help from a healthcare professional to obtain the most appropriate and effective treatment for their condition.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Dr. Tyler Baron, BASc, DC or another Kitchener chiropractor at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
