⚠️ Warning: Sudden arm weakness or loss of grip strength requires urgent evaluation
Spine Conditions · Hyderabad
Cervical Radiculopathy (Pinched Nerve) Treatment in Hyderabad
Suffering from severe arm pain, numbness, or "pins and needles"? Dr. Sayuj Krishnan provides advanced diagnosis and minimally invasive treatment for cervical radiculopathy, helping you get back to a pain-free life faster.
Signs of a Pinched Nerve (Radiculopathy)
Cervical radiculopathy happens when a nerve root in the neck is compressed. Common symptoms include:
Shooting Pain
Sharp, electric-shock type pain radiating from the neck down the arm to the fingers.
Numbness & Tingling
"Pins and needles" sensation in specific fingers or the hand.
Muscle Weakness
Weakness in lifting the arm, extending the wrist, or gripping objects.
Relief Position
Many patients feel relief by resting their hand on top of their head (Shoulder Abduction Sign).
What Causes Cervical Radiculopathy?
As we age, the discs in our spine lose height and water content. This degenerative process can lead to two main causes of nerve compression:
- Herniated Disc: The soft inner gel of the disc leaks out and presses directly on the nerve root. This is common in younger patients and often happens suddenly.
- Bone Spurs (Osteophytes): Over time, the body creates extra bone to stabilize the spine, narrowing the "foramen" (exit tunnel) for the nerve. This is more common in older adults.
Regardless of the cause, the goal of treatment is to relieve the pressure on the nerve to stop the pain and allow the nerve to heal.
Diagnostic Approach
- Comprehensive physical exam to pinpoint which nerve is affected (C5, C6, C7, or C8)
- Reflex and strength testing
- MRI Cervical Spine: The gold standard to visualize the nerve compression
- X-rays to check for instability or alignment issues
- Nerve Conduction Studies (EMG/NCS) if the diagnosis is unclear
Advanced Surgical Treatments
While most patients recover without surgery, those with severe pain or weakness may need intervention. Dr. Sayuj Krishnan specializes in minimally invasive options:
1. Posterior Cervical Foraminotomy (Keyhole)
A minimally invasive procedure performed through the back of the neck. Using a small tube and microscope/endoscope, a small amount of bone/disc is removed to open the nerve tunnel.
- • No Fusion Required: Preserves natural neck motion.
- • No Implants: No screws, plates, or cages.
- • Fast Recovery: Less swallowing difficulty than anterior surgery.
2. Anterior Cervical Discectomy & Fusion (ACDF)
The most common neck surgery. The disc is removed from the front of the neck to unpinch the nerve, and the space is filled with a cage/bone graft to fuse the bones.
- • Gold standard for central disc herniations.
- • Highly effective for relieving arm pain (95%+ success).
- • Prevents recurrence at that level.
3. Artificial Disc Replacement (ADR)
Similar to ACDF, but instead of fusion, a mobile artificial disc device is inserted. This maintains neck motion and reduces stress on adjacent discs.
- • Preserves range of motion.
- • Reduces risk of future surgery at other levels.
- • Ideal for younger patients with healthy bones.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a pinched nerve in the neck require surgery?
Not necessarily. Most cases (approx. 90%) of cervical radiculopathy resolve with non-surgical treatments like rest, anti-inflammatory medication, physiotherapy, and possibly a nerve block injection. Surgery is considered when pain is unmanageable, or if there is progressive weakness (motor deficit) in the arm or hand.
What is the best surgery for cervical radiculopathy?
The 'best' surgery depends on the location of the compression. For nerves pinched by bone spurs or side-herniated discs, a **Posterior Cervical Foraminotomy (Keyhole Surgery)** is ideal because it relieves pressure without needing fusion or implants. For central disc herniations, **ACDF (Fusion)** or **Artificial Disc Replacement** provides the most reliable results.
How long does it take to recover from pinched nerve surgery?
Recovery is generally quick, especially with minimally invasive techniques. Patients are typically walking hours after surgery and discharged within 24 hours. Most can return to desk jobs in 1-2 weeks. Heavy lifting and contact sports are usually restricted for 6-12 weeks to allow for healing.
Can I use a computer after cervical spine surgery?
Yes, but you should take frequent breaks. We recommend keeping the monitor at eye level to avoid bending your neck. Short periods of computer use are allowed within a few days, gradually increasing as your neck comfort allows.
What are the risks of leaving a pinched nerve untreated?
If the nerve is severely compressed for a long time, it can lead to permanent nerve damage, resulting in chronic numbness or muscle wasting (atrophy) in the arm or hand. If pain persists beyond 6-8 weeks or if you have weakness, surgical consultation is advised to prevent permanent loss of function.
Dr. Sayuj Krishnan, Neurosurgeon
Room 317, OPD Block, Yashoda Hospital, Malakpet, Hyderabad, Telangana 500036
Phone: +91 9778280044 · Email: hellodr@drsayuj.info
Authored by: Dr. Sayuj Krishnan S, Neurosurgeon
Reviewed by: Dr. Sayuj Krishnan S, Board Certified Neurosurgeon
Last reviewed: 22 January 2026
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
Consult Dr. Sayuj Near You
Find specialized treatment for your condition at a clinic near you.
Sources & Evidence
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons – Cervical Radiculopathy (Pinched Nerve)
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke – Cervical Radiculopathy Information
External links are provided for transparency and do not represent sponsorships. Each source was accessed on 19 Oct 2025.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Sayuj KrishnanConsultant Neurosurgeon, Yashoda Hospital MalakpetLast reviewed 19 October 2025
This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Please consult with Dr. Sayuj for personalized medical guidance.