Cervical radiculopathy can be a challenging condition to manage, as it can cause significant discomfort and limit your ability to perform daily activities. However, physiotherapy can play an essential role in the treatment of cervical radiculopathy, helping to alleviate symptoms and improve function.
Cervical radiculopathy is a condition we see very often. All cases are different however the following three tips tend to apply across the vast majority of cases.
- Maintain good posture:
Poor posture can put extra strain on the neck and spine, increasing the likelihood of compression or irritation of the cervical nerve roots. To avoid this, aim to maintain good posture throughout the day. This means keeping your shoulders back, your head upright, and your spine in a neutral position. Try to avoid slouching or leaning forward for extended periods, as this can exacerbate symptoms as does long periods of looking up, such as would occur doing jobs at home like painting, washing the windows and hedge trimming.
- Be mindful of your movements:
Certain movements or activities can exacerbate symptoms of cervical radiculopathy, such as twisting and turning, looking up, or lifting heavy objects, particularly lifting above shoulder height. Be mindful of these movements and try to avoid them where possible. If you do need to lift something, use proper lifting technique by bending at the knees, keeping the object close to your body, and avoiding twisting or jerking movements.
- Follow your physiotherapy program:
We will develop a personalized program to help manage your cervical radiculopathy. This program may include exercises to strengthen and stretch the neck and upper back, as well as manual therapy techniques to reduce pain and improve mobility. It's essential to follow this program as closely as possible to achieve the best possible outcomes. Be sure to attend all scheduled appointments and communicate with your physiotherapist about any changes in your symptoms. This is one condition where the spacing between appointments can make the difference between the condition resolving or in it hanging around longer than it should.
As always, we are here to help and relief is just a few appointments away.
