A pinched nerve root in the neck produces arm symptoms that follow a map — and the map tells you the level.
What it is
A nerve root leaving the cervical spine is compressed by a disc herniation or by bony narrowing of the foramen.
C6 refers to the thumb, C7 to the middle finger, C8 to the little finger. The pattern is how the level is identified clinically.
How it usually presents
- Neck pain with arm pain, often worse than the neck pain.
- Numbness or tingling in specific fingers.
- Weakness in a specific movement — elbow flexion, elbow extension, grip.
- Relief when the hand is placed on top of the head.
How we treat it
- Examination and, where uncertain, EMG to separate a root problem from a peripheral nerve problem.
- Cervical epidural steroid injection.
- Physical therapy including traction where appropriate.
To be assessed, call (314) 310-5577 or request an appointment. If this began with a crash or a fall, see accident and injury care.
Common questions
Is this the same as carpal tunnel?
No, though they are confused constantly. Carpal tunnel is compression at the wrist. EMG distinguishes them reliably.
Hurt in an accident? Start here.
You do not need a lawyer, a police report or a referral to be seen. Bring your symptoms and we will work out the rest.
Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Same-day appointments are often available for new accident and injury patients.