Diagnosis | Treatment for a trapped nerve in the cervical spine

Diagnosis

First, a suspected diagnosis is made on the basis of the clear symptoms. A detailed anamnesis, e.g. about incorrect posture or incorrect weight bearing, supports the suspicion. Muscle hardenings can be palpated by the doctor. Serious causes, such as bone fractures, herniated discs or tumors, can be ruled out by imaging procedures (sonography, computer tomography or magnetic resonance therapy) if the symptoms or accompanying symptoms have been present for a longer period of time. To check the functionality of the nerve, the nerve conduction velocity can be measured.

Duration

The duration of the complaints depends on the underlying causes. In the absence of treatment, there is a risk of a permanent poor posture and the complaints will increase. Therefore, the causes should be identified as early as possible and the appropriate measures should be taken.If there are harmless causes such as hardened muscles or a wrong sleeping position, the complaints usually subside after a few days to weeks. In the case of serious diseases, the duration of the complaints is variable.