Definition of Cervical Radiculopathy

Cervical radiculopathy is a condition caused by compression or irritation of a nerve as it exits the spinal column in the cervical spine (neck). Some common causes of radiculopathy anywhere in the spine can include mechanical compression of the nerve by a bone spur, disc herniation, osteoarthritis, or from thickening of surrounding ligaments. Signs and symptoms of cervical radiculopathy include pain that spreads into the arm, neck, chest, upper back, or shoulders. Numbness, tingling, and weakness in these areas are other possible symptoms. Symptoms may occur on one side of the body only.