Cervical Radiculopathy Treatment in New Mexico
Find orthopedic specialists who treat cervical radiculopathy in New Mexico
Cervical radiculopathy is a condition caused by compression or irritation of a nerve root in the cervical (neck) spine. When a disc herniates or bone spurs develop in the neck, they can press on the nerve roots that travel down the arm, causing pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness that radiates from the neck into the shoulder, arm, and hand.
Common symptoms of cervical radiculopathy
- Sharp or burning pain in the neck, shoulder, arm, or hand
- Numbness or tingling down the arm into specific fingers
- Weakness in the shoulder, arm, or hand muscles
- Pain that worsens with neck movement or certain positions
- Pain that may be relieved by placing the hand on the head (Bakody sign)
- Neck stiffness and limited range of motion
When to see a specialist
See a spine specialist if neck pain is accompanied by arm numbness, tingling, or weakness. Seek urgent care if you have progressive weakness, difficulty with fine motor tasks (buttoning, writing), or symptoms in both arms.
Treatment options
Physical therapy
Cervical traction, manual therapy, and specific exercises to relieve nerve compression and restore neck mobility.
Medications
NSAIDs, oral corticosteroids, muscle relaxants, and gabapentin or pregabalin for nerve pain.
Cervical epidural steroid injection
Injection around the compressed nerve root to reduce inflammation and relieve arm pain.
Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF)
The most common surgery, removing the herniated disc or bone spur and fusing the affected vertebrae.
Cervical disc replacement
Alternative to fusion that preserves neck motion at the operated level.
Recovery timeline
Most cases (75-90%) improve with conservative treatment over 4-12 weeks. Epidural injection provides relief within days to weeks. ACDF surgery recovery: 4-6 weeks for basic function, 3-4 months for full recovery.
Orthopedic Specialists in New Mexico
About Cervical RadiculopathyCervical Radiculopathy in Other States
Other Conditions in New Mexico
Common Questions About Cervical Radiculopathy Treatment in New Mexico
How do I find a doctor for Cervical Radiculopathy in New Mexico?
AdvOrtho lists orthopedic surgeons across New Mexico who treat Cervical Radiculopathy. Browse the providers on this page, view their credentials and sub-specialties, and request an appointment directly from their profile.
Does insurance cover Cervical Radiculopathy treatment in New Mexico?
Most major insurance plans cover medically necessary treatment for Cervical Radiculopathy, including consultations, imaging, physical therapy, and surgery. Coverage details vary by plan. Contact your insurer or the provider's office to verify coverage before scheduling.
What type of doctor treats Cervical Radiculopathy?
Cervical Radiculopathy is typically treated by an orthopedic surgeon. Depending on the specific condition, you may see a specialist in sports medicine, joint replacement, spine surgery, or another orthopedic sub-specialty.
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified orthopedic specialist for diagnosis and treatment.