Pinched Nerve / Radiculopathy Treatment

Cervical radiculopathy — commonly called a pinched nerve — occurs when a nerve root in the neck becomes compressed or irritated as it exits the spinal column. This compression can be caused by a herniated disc, bone spurs from arthritis, or narrowing of the neural foramen. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60, though it can develop at any age following an injury or due to degenerative changes in the cervical spine.

Common symptoms of cervical radiculopathy include:

• Pain that radiates from the neck into the shoulder, arm, or hand
• Numbness or tingling along a specific nerve pathway
• Weakness in the hand, wrist, or arm muscles
• A burning or electric sensation that worsens with certain neck positions
• Difficulty gripping objects or performing fine motor tasks

While cervical radiculopathy can be alarming, most cases respond well to conservative treatment. Physical therapy is recommended as the primary treatment approach, with the majority of patients recovering fully without surgical intervention. Early treatment helps prevent chronic symptoms and protects against progressive nerve damage.

At The Back Clinic, our approach focuses on reducing nerve compression and creating space for the affected nerve to heal. Your treatment plan is developed based on the specific nerve level involved, the severity of your symptoms, and your functional goals.

Treatment typically includes:

• Cervical traction — Gentle mechanical or manual traction to decompress the cervical spine and reduce pressure on the nerve root
• Neural mobilization — Specific nerve gliding techniques that improve nerve mobility and reduce sensitivity
• Joint mobilization — Hands-on techniques to restore segmental mobility and reduce compression at the affected level
• Postural correction — Addressing positions and habits that increase nerve compression, including workstation ergonomics
• Progressive strengthening — Building stability in the cervical spine and scapular muscles to maintain improved alignment
• Pain education — Helping you understand your condition and what activities to modify during recovery

Every session is one-on-one with a licensed physical therapist who monitors your neurological response to treatment and adjusts your plan accordingly. This hands-on approach allows us to progress your care safely while protecting the healing nerve.

Our goal is not just symptom relief — we work to resolve the underlying compression so your results last and you can return to full activity without limitations.

Your evaluation will include specific neurological tests to identify which nerve root is involved and how severely it is affected. This includes testing reflexes, sensation, and muscle strength in the arm to map the exact nerve level. Your therapist will also assess your cervical range of motion, posture, and any movements that reproduce or relieve your symptoms.

The first goal of treatment is to centralize your symptoms — moving the pain from the arm back toward the neck, which indicates the nerve is decompressing. Most patients begin seeing this improvement within the first two to four weeks of treatment.

A typical course of care for cervical radiculopathy runs eight to twelve visits. More severe cases with significant weakness may take longer, and your therapist will monitor your neurological status throughout treatment to ensure you are progressing appropriately.

For your first visit, wear comfortable clothing that allows access to your neck and shoulders. Bring any imaging reports (MRI or X-ray) if available, along with your insurance card. Delaware does not require a physician referral to begin physical therapy, and we accept Medicare and most major insurance plans. Our office staff will verify your benefits before your first appointment so there are no surprises.