Burwood NSW · Cervical Radiculopathy Treatment
Cervical radiculopathy — a pinched nerve in the neck — causes pain, numbness, and weakness radiating down the arm. It is one of the most effectively treated conditions with physiotherapy.
When a cervical nerve root is compressed by a disc herniation or bone spur, it sends symptoms into the shoulder, arm, and hand. Our physiotherapists decompress the nerve, restore movement, and eliminate the root cause.
How We Treat This Condition
Evidence-based treatment tailored to your specific presentation and goals.
Neurological Assessment
Dermatomal and myotomal testing identifies exactly which nerve root is affected and guides treatment selection precisely.
Learn more →Neural Mobilisation
Gentle cervical nerve mobilisation techniques reduce nerve root adhesion and inflammation — often providing rapid improvement in arm symptoms.
Learn more →Neck Stabilisation
Progressive deep neck flexor and cervical stabiliser strengthening protects the nerve roots and prevents recurrence.
Learn more →Dry Needling
Needling into tight posterior neck and upper trapezius muscles reduces the compression and tension on irritated nerve roots.
Learn more →Cervical Traction
Manual traction opens the intervertebral foramen and creates space for the compressed nerve root — often providing immediate relief of arm pain.
Learn more →Postural Education
Correcting the head-forward posture and prolonged neck positions that drive cervical disc and nerve root problems.
Learn more →When to See a Physio for Cervical Radiculopathy
See a physiotherapist if neck pain is accompanied by pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness radiating into the arm or hand, as these nerve-related symptoms benefit from prompt, targeted assessment and treatment.
What Happens at Your First Appointment?
Full Assessment
Detailed history, movement analysis and clinical tests to identify the root cause of your problem.
Diagnosis & Plan
We explain exactly what is going on and create a realistic, goal-focused treatment timeline.
Hands-On Treatment
Most patients receive treatment in their first session — manual therapy, needling, or exercise prescription.
Home Program
You leave with clear exercises and self-management strategies to accelerate your recovery.
Why Choose Burwood Physio?
- AHPRA-registered physiotherapists
- Same-day and next-day appointments available
- HICAPS on-site — claim health fund rebate instantly
- Medicare bulk billing with GP CDM plan
- NDIS registered provider
- WorkCover and icare accepted
- Evidence-based treatment — no unnecessary sessions
- 2 minutes walk from Burwood Station
📍 Located in Burwood: Shop 2, 36–38 Victoria St East, Burwood NSW 2134. 2 min from Burwood Station. Open Mon–Sat.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is cervical radiculopathy?
It is compression or irritation of a nerve root as it exits the cervical spine, causing pain, numbness, and weakness in the arm.
Can physiotherapy resolve cervical radiculopathy without surgery?
Yes. The vast majority of cervical radiculopathy cases resolve with physiotherapy over 6–12 weeks. Surgery is rarely required.
How long does cervical radiculopathy treatment take?
Most patients experience significant improvement within 4–8 weeks of physiotherapy. Full recovery typically takes 2–4 months.
What nerve root levels are most commonly affected?
C6 and C7 are the most commonly affected levels, causing symptoms into the forearm, thumb, and middle fingers.
Do I need an MRI for cervical radiculopathy?
Not necessarily for initial treatment. An MRI may be ordered if symptoms are not improving or surgery is being considered.
What causes cervical radiculopathy?
Cervical radiculopathy is most often caused by a disc bulge or herniation, or bony changes from osteoarthritis, compressing a nerve root as it exits the cervical spine.
What does cervical radiculopathy treatment involve at Burwood Physio?
Treatment includes nerve gliding techniques, manual therapy for the neck and upper back, and a progressive exercise program to reduce nerve irritation and restore strength in the affected arm.
What symptoms suggest cervical radiculopathy rather than general neck pain?
Radiating pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness travelling down the arm — following a specific nerve pathway — distinguishes radiculopathy from typical neck pain, which usually stays localised.
When is surgery needed for cervical radiculopathy?
Surgery is only considered for a small minority of cases — typically when there is progressive weakness, significant unremitting pain, or no improvement after a genuine trial of conservative treatment.
Can cervical radiculopathy cause permanent nerve damage?
In most cases, no — symptoms resolve fully with appropriate treatment. Prolonged, severe compression can occasionally cause lasting weakness, which is why timely assessment and treatment are important.
Neck and arm pain radiating?
Pinched nerves in the neck respond very well to physiotherapy. Get assessed today.