Neck Pain, Arm Numbness, and Tingling: A Physiotherapy Case for Cervical Radiculopathy

Joyce Zuniega • December 19, 2025

Managing Cervical Radiculopathy Through Physiotherapy: A Case at Regenesis Pain Management & Rehab Clinic

Neck pain that radiates into the arm can significantly impact daily life, especially when accompanied by numbness, tingling, and weakness. At Regenesis Pain Management & Rehab Clinic, we recently treated a patient who presented with these exact symptoms and achieved meaningful relief through a structured physiotherapy program.

Patient Presentation

The patient came to our clinic with:

  • Persistent neck pain radiating down the left arm for the past 6 months
  • Numbness and tingling sensations in the left arm
  • Difficulty performing activities of daily living (ADLs) without pain, including household tasks and prolonged sitting
  • Reduced comfort during rest and movement

The chronic nature of the symptoms was affecting both physical function and overall quality of life.

Physiotherapy Assessment & Diagnosis

A detailed physiotherapy assessment was conducted, including:

  • Postural analysis
  • Cervical spine mobility testing
  • Neurological screening
  • Special tests to assess nerve involvement

Based on clinical findings, the patient was diagnosed with cervical radiculopathy, a condition caused by compression or irritation of cervical spinal nerves, leading to radiating arm pain, sensory changes, and functional limitations.

Treatment Approach at Regenesis

Our treatment plan focused on pain relief, inflammation reduction, muscle relaxation, nerve decompression, and functional restoration.

1. Ultrasound Therapy (US)

We initiated treatment with therapeutic ultrasound to:

  • Reduce inflammation around affected cervical structures
  • Improve blood circulation
  • Promote tissue healing
  • Prepare tissues for manual therapy

Ultrasound helped decrease local irritation and provided early pain relief.

2. Interferential Current Therapy (IFC) with Hot Pack

To further manage pain and muscle tension, IFC therapy was applied along with a moist hot pack:

  • IFC helped modulate pain signals and reduce nerve-related discomfort
  • Heat therapy improved muscle relaxation and increased tissue extensibility
  • Combined therapy reduced stiffness and muscle guarding in the neck and shoulder region

This step was especially beneficial in easing radiating symptoms into the arm.

3. Myofascial Release Therapy

Targeted myofascial release was performed on tight cervical and shoulder girdle muscles:

  • Reduced soft tissue restrictions
  • Decreased stress on the cervical spine
  • Improved neck mobility
  • Helped relieve nerve compression indirectly

Manual therapy played a key role in restoring comfort and movement.

4. Therapeutic Exercise Program

An individualized exercise program was prescribed, focusing on:

  • Cervical mobility exercises
  • Postural correction
  • Scapular stabilization
  • Neural gliding exercises (as tolerated)
  • Gentle strengthening to support the neck

The exercise plan was designed to be safe, progressive, and effective for long-term symptom control.

5. Patient Education: Do’s and Don’ts

Education is a crucial part of recovery. The patient was counseled on:

  • Proper sitting and sleeping posture
  • Activity modification to avoid nerve aggravation
  • Ergonomic adjustments at home and work
  • Importance of consistency with home exercises
  • Avoiding sudden neck movements and prolonged forward head posture

Empowering the patient with knowledge helps prevent recurrence and supports sustainable recovery.

Outcome & Ongoing Care

With regular physiotherapy sessions and adherence to the home program:

  • Pain intensity began to reduce
  • Arm numbness and tingling improved
  • Functional ability in daily activities increased
  • The patient reported better confidence in movement

The patient continues to progress under guided physiotherapy care at Regenesis Pain Management & Rehab Clinic.

Conclusion

Cervical radiculopathy can be debilitating if left untreated, but with early assessment, targeted physiotherapy, and patient education, significant improvement is achievable. At Regenesis, we take a comprehensive and individualized approach to ensure optimal recovery and long-term spine health.

If you or someone you know is experiencing neck pain radiating into the arm, don’t ignore the symptoms. Early physiotherapy intervention can make a lasting difference.

📍 Visit Regenesis Pain Management & Rehab Clinic
📞 Book your physiotherapy assessment today and take the first step toward pain-free living.


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