For some patients, the pain goes away relatively quickly-in days or weeks. It is important to note that the majority of patients with cervical radiculopathy get better over time and do not need treatment. Together, these tests can help your doctor determine whether your symptoms are caused by pressure on spinal nerve roots and nerve damage or by another condition that causes damage to nerves, such as diabetes. Nerve conduction studies are often done along with EMG to determine if a nerve is functioning normally. Electromyography measures the electrical impulses of the muscles at rest and during contractions. It can also help your doctor determine whether there is any damage to your spinal cord or nerve roots.Įlectromyography (EMG). An MRI of the neck can show if your nerve compression is caused by damage to soft tissues-such as a bulging or herniated disk. These studies create better images of the body's soft tissues.

More detailed than a plain x-ray, a CT scan can help your doctor determine whether you have developed bone spurs near the foramen in your cervical spine. It can also reveal whether there is any narrowing of the foramen and damage to the disks.Ĭomputerized tomography (CT) scans.

An x-ray will show the alignment of bones along your neck. These provide images of dense structures, such as bone. Your doctor may also ask you to perform certain neck and arm movements to try to recreate and/or relieve your symptoms. He or she will then examine your neck, shoulder, arms and hands-looking for muscle weakness, loss of sensation, or any change in your reflexes. After discussing your medical history and general health, your doctor will ask you about your symptoms.

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