Symptom · Cervical spine

Arm Pain & Numbness

Pain, tingling, or numbness travelling from the neck into the arm or hand. Understand the cervical spine causes and your treatment options.

What it feels like

Pain or numbness in the arm that originates from the neck is called cervical radiculopathy or, when the spinal cord itself is compressed, myelopathy. You may feel a sharp, burning pain that runs from the side of the neck down into the shoulder, arm, or hand — following a predictable path depending on which nerve is involved. Tingling or pins and needles in the fingers are common, and in some cases the hand feels clumsy or weak rather than painful.

Common triggers

Sustained head-down postures during desk work or device use
Sleeping with the neck in an awkward position
Activities that involve repeated overhead reaching
A sudden extension-flexion injury (whiplash) from a vehicle collision
Gradual age-related disc degeneration in the cervical spine

When to seek help urgently

Arm pain originating from the neck warrants prompt specialist attention if you notice:

Progressive weakness making it difficult to grip, pinch, or carry
Clumsiness — dropping things, struggling with buttons, or changes in handwriting
Symptoms affecting both arms or spreading into the legs
Bladder or bowel dysfunction alongside arm symptoms — seek emergency care immediately

What to expect at consultation

Mr. Rath will map the exact distribution of your symptoms against the anatomy of the cervical spine to identify which level is involved. He will examine muscle strength, sensation, and reflexes throughout the arm, and review your MRI scan in detail — arranging further investigations if needed. Conservative management is almost always the first step; surgery is only suggested when conservative measures have failed, or when there is clear nerve or cord compression that warrants it.

Take the next step

Talk to Mr. Rath about your symptoms.

Online and in-clinic consultations available across the North West.

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