Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 7, 2026
05:56
A Mouse Model of Direct Anastomosis via the Prespinal Route for Crossing Nerve Transfer Surgery
Published on: October 19, 2021
Radiculopathy of the eighth cervical nerve
David G Greathouse1, Anand Joshi
1Texas Physical Therapy Specialists, New Braunfels, TX, USA. greathoused1@yahoo.com
The Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy
|October 26, 2010
Summary
This case study highlights an unusual C8 radiculopathy presentation diagnosed using physical exams, electrodiagnostic studies (EMG/NCS), and imaging. Early diagnosis and surgical intervention led to symptom improvement.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neurosurgery
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Cervical radiculopathy, specifically C8 nerve root involvement, is infrequently diagnosed.
- This case presents an atypical C8 radiculopathy without typical cervical or upper extremity symptoms.
Observation:
- A 49-year-old male with forearm and hand symptoms was initially suspected of having ulnar neuropathy.
- Physical examination, electromyography (EMG), and nerve conduction studies (NCSs) revealed C8 radiculopathy.
- Enhanced MRI confirmed a C7-T1 herniation compressing the C8 motor root.
Findings:
- Surgical intervention (C7-T1 laminectomy, foraminotomy, disk excision) successfully decompressed the C8 motor root.
- Postoperatively, the patient experienced reduced pain, paresthesia, and improved hand strength.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of a multimodal diagnostic approach for C8 radiculopathy.
- Accurate diagnosis through physical examination, electrodiagnostic testing, and imaging is crucial for effective treatment and improved patient outcomes.
Related Concept Videos
01:29Herniated Intervertebral Disc l: Introduction
Intervertebral disc herniation refers to the displacement of the nucleus pulposus (the gel-like inner core of the disc) through a tear or weakened area in the annulus fibrosus (the outer fibrous ring). The displaced disc material extends beyond the normal boundaries of the disc space and may compress or irritate nearby spinal nerve roots or, less commonly, the spinal cord.Etiology and Risk FactorsHerniation commonly results from degeneration, in which aging reduces disc hydration and...
01:22Spinal Nerves: Plexus I
Nerve plexuses are networks of interlacing nerves that serve as communication hubs to distribute and organize nerve action across various body regions. The nerve plexuses are organized into the cervical plexus located in the neck region, brachial plexus in the shoulder area, lumbar plexus found in the lower back, sacral plexus situated in the pelvis, and coccygeal plexus located in the coccygeal region.
The Cervical Plexus
The cervical plexus, formed by the anterior rami of the first four...
The Cervical Plexus
The cervical plexus, formed by the anterior rami of the first four...
01:23Spinal Nerves: Anatomy
Spinal nerves are pivotal conduits in the nervous system, bridging the central nervous system (CNS) with the peripheral nervous system (PNS). These nerves enable a complex communication network between the brain, spinal cord, and the rest of the body, facilitating sensory input, motor output, and autonomic functions.
There are 31 bilateral pairs of spinal nerves, each emerging from the spinal cord through the intervertebral foramina—openings between adjacent vertebrae. These nerves are...
There are 31 bilateral pairs of spinal nerves, each emerging from the spinal cord through the intervertebral foramina—openings between adjacent vertebrae. These nerves are...
01:23Degenerative Disc Disease ll: Pathophysiology
The symptoms of degenerative disc disease arise from a combination of mechanical compression, vascular compromise, and biochemical inflammation, which together disrupt nerve function and produce pain.Mechanical CompressionDisc degeneration reduces height and elasticity, predisposing to herniation of the nucleus pulposus, a major cause of radicular pain. Herniations may be protrusion (bulging with intact annulus), extrusion (nucleus extends beyond disc but remains connected), or sequestration...
01:14Cranial Nerves: Types Part I
Cranial nerves are responsible for transmitting motor and sensory information between the brain and various parts of the body. There are twelve pairs of cranial nerves, with the first six being essential in sensory perception, motor control, and autonomic functions related to the head and neck.
Olfactory Nerve (Cranial Nerve I)
The olfactory nerve, or cranial nerve I, is unique as it is purely sensory and dedicated to the sense of smell. This nerve originates in the olfactory epithelium of the...
Olfactory Nerve (Cranial Nerve I)
The olfactory nerve, or cranial nerve I, is unique as it is purely sensory and dedicated to the sense of smell. This nerve originates in the olfactory epithelium of the...
01:21Spinal Nerves: Plexus II
The plexuses of the lower body include the lumbar, sacral, and coccygeal plexuses, which innervate the abdomen, pelvis, legs, and coccygeal region. These plexuses control the transmission of sensory information and coordinate motor functions of the lower body.
The Lumbar Plexus
The lumbar plexus is situated within the lumbar region of the back and is primarily formed by the first four lumbar spinal nerves (L1 to L4). This plexus extends its branches into several nerves, including the...
The Lumbar Plexus
The lumbar plexus is situated within the lumbar region of the back and is primarily formed by the first four lumbar spinal nerves (L1 to L4). This plexus extends its branches into several nerves, including the...