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Cervical radiculopathies: conservative approaches to management
Michael W Wolff1, Larry A Levine
1Southwest Spine and Sports, 9522 E. San Salvadore, Suite 319, Scottsdale, AZ 95258, USA. wolffmw@aol.com
Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Clinics of North America
|October 17, 2002
Summary
Most patients with cervical radiculopathy experience favorable outcomes with non-surgical treatments. Aggressive, comprehensive conservative care effectively reduces pain and improves function, often making surgery unnecessary.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Neurology
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Background:
- Cervical radiculopathy, a condition affecting nerve roots in the neck, typically follows a favorable natural course.
- Non-surgical management is frequently successful in improving patient outcomes and satisfaction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current and foundational literature on non-surgical treatments for cervical radiculopathy.
- To emphasize the efficacy of conservative management strategies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent and classic studies.
- Synthesis of evidence regarding non-surgical interventions.
Main Results:
- The natural history of cervical radiculopathy is generally positive.
- Comprehensive non-surgical approaches yield significant improvements in function and pain.
- Patient satisfaction is high with conservative care.
Conclusions:
- Surgery can be avoided for the majority of patients with cervical radiculopathy.
- Aggressive, non-surgical management is the recommended primary treatment approach.
- Evidence supports the effectiveness of conservative care for cervical radiculopathy.