Shock wave therapy/effect | Physiotherapy for nerve root compression in the cervical spine

Shock wave therapy/effect

In shock wave therapy chronic pain, muscle tension but also tendons and passive structures can be treated. These are sound waves of a certain frequency which are directed specifically at the tissue to be treated and can unfold their effect in depth. When used for nerve root compression, they improve blood circulation and can loosen adhesions and muscular tensions. They are also suitable for treating muscular trigger points. Whether the shock wave therapy is covered by health insurance or whether it is a self-paying service should be clarified in advance.

Mobilization

Mobilization of the cervical spine in the case of nerve root compression syndrome is important in order to restore or maintain functional mobility of the cervical spine. Movement in all directions of motion is important to keep the joints intact and to avoid incorrect loading. Mobilization of the cervical spine is therefore also useful in cases of nerve root compression.

It can sometimes happen that one direction of movement increases the pressure on the compression; this direction should then be omitted and only be exercised in the pain-free area.The therapist can manually mobilize the cervical spine, and by means of specific movements he can move the individual vertebrae against each other and thus improve joint play. To train the mobility of the head and cervical spine as a whole is the patient’s task. During therapy, the patient is shown mobilizing exercises (e.g. head circles, retraction exercises, lateral inclination). Once the patient has mastered the exercises, a homework program is put together so that he can permanently improve the mobility of his spine on his own.

Strengthening/why and how does this look like in practice?

Nerve root compression is usually preceded by a long or short period of heavy strain, and the patient usually suffers from poor posture and muscular imbalance. This must be trained in physiotherapy for nerve root compression syndrome. Muscles that are too weak are strengthened by active training.

Since nerve root compression can also lead to muscular weakness in the area supplied by the nerve (e.g. arm extension or finger/hand movements), the muscles weakened by compression should also be trained. Strengthening is an active part of the therapy, the therapist instructs the patient and controls the execution. The responsibility for the long-term success of the therapy lies with the patient, who must continue to perform the exercises regularly and consistently at home independently in order to achieve a lasting improvement in strength.