Cervical Radiculopathy Treatment
in Tulsa, Oklahoma
A pinched nerve in the neck causing pain, numbness, or weakness radiating into the shoulder and arm. Dr. Bhakta provides precision interventional treatments to decompress the affected nerve.
Understanding Cervical Radiculopathy
Cervical radiculopathy (often called a "pinched nerve in the neck") is the set of symptoms that occurs when one of the nerve roots exiting the cervical spine becomes compressed or inflamed. Because these roots carry motor and sensory signals to specific parts of the shoulder, arm, and hand, the resulting pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness follows a predictable map. That map is the most important diagnostic clue we have.
The most commonly affected levels are C6 and C7, which together account for the majority of cases we see in clinic. A C6 nerve problem typically produces pain down the outer arm into the thumb and index finger, sometimes with weakness of the wrist or biceps. A C7 problem sends pain into the middle finger and can weaken elbow extension and wrist flexion. Less common are C5 radiculopathies (shoulder and upper arm) and C8 radiculopathies (ring and little finger).
The underlying cause is usually one of three processes: a cervical disc herniation pressing on the root, age-related bone spurs and narrowing known as cervical spondylosis, or cervical spinal stenosis. Trauma (including whiplash) can precipitate symptoms in a spine that already has underlying degeneration. Lifting, extended overhead work, and sleeping in awkward positions are common triggers for a flare.
The natural history is generally favorable. Studies suggest that most patients (particularly those with disc-related radiculopathy) improve substantially within 6–12 weeks, even without surgery. The goal of interventional care is to quiet the inflammation, preserve strength, and support that natural recovery so pain does not become entrenched. Surgery is reserved for progressive weakness or persistent disabling pain after comprehensive non-surgical care.
Symptoms & When to Seek Care
Typical Cervical Radiculopathy Symptoms
- Sharp, burning, or electric pain down the arm, often one-sided
- Numbness or tingling in specific fingers following a dermatomal pattern
- Neck pain with radiation into the shoulder blade
- Relief when the arm rests on top of the head (shoulder abduction sign)
- Worsening with neck extension, rotation toward the painful side, or coughing
- Subtle weakness in specific movements, opening a jar, lifting overhead
When to Seek Immediate Care
- Progressive arm or hand weakness, or new loss of dexterity
- Difficulty with walking, balance, or fine finger movements (concerning for myelopathy)
- New bowel or bladder control changes
- Severe symptoms after significant trauma
- Fever, chills, or unexplained weight loss alongside neck and arm pain
These findings are uncommon but benefit from same-day evaluation. If you notice any of them, an emergency department can quickly rule out serious causes so the right care plan can begin.
How Cervical Radiculopathy Is Diagnosed at PDTC
Because the pattern of symptoms tells us which nerve is involved, Dr. Bhakta's workup focuses on matching the clinical picture to the imaging, and confirming that the level we suspect is the level actually producing pain.
History & Targeted Exam
Dr. Bhakta maps the pain pattern by dermatome, checks strength in key muscles, and tests reflexes. Spurling's maneuver (gentle extension, rotation, and compression toward the symptomatic side) is highly specific for identifying root compression and localizing the level.
Imaging & Nerve Studies
MRI identifies disc herniation, foraminal narrowing, and bone spurs contacting the root. When symptoms do not fit the imaging, or when multiple levels look abnormal, EMG/nerve conduction studies help confirm which root is actually irritated and rule out peripheral nerve entrapments like carpal tunnel.
Tailored Treatment Plan
Once the responsible nerve root is identified, Dr. Bhakta builds a plan to treat it. Options may include a fluoroscopically guided cervical epidural steroid injection to calm inflammation at the root, peripheral nerve stimulation for persistent radicular arm pain, or chemical neurolysis for focal refractory pain, alongside targeted physical therapy.
Treatment Options at PDTC
Dr. Bhakta creates an individualized plan based on your specific diagnosis and symptoms.
Learn More from Trusted Medical Sources
These links are provided for educational purposes. They do not constitute medical advice. Always consult Dr. Bhakta for personalized treatment recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Bhadresh L. Bhakta, M.D.
Board-Certified Interventional Pain Specialist
Fellowship trained in Pain Medicine at Vanderbilt University. Board Certified for decades. Formerly served as Associate Professor at OU School of Medicine. Serving Tulsa since 2000.
Full bio →Related Treatments
Dr. Bhakta may recommend one or more of the following interventional options based on your specific diagnosis and history.