At Northwest Spine Surgery in Portland, OR, our team specializes in degenerative and traumatic spine disorders, including conditions caused by aging, activity, work injuries, and motor vehicle collisions. Dr. Kendrick Khoo is fellowship-trained in spine surgery and uses evidence-based medicine with shared decision-making. Dr. Serena Liu is also fellowship-trained and brings experience in degenerative spine disorders, minimally invasive techniques, motion-preserving surgery, and complex spine care.
What Is a Pinched Nerve in the Neck?
A cervical nerve can become irritated when pressure develops around a nerve root in the neck. This can happen because of a herniated disc, bone spurs, arthritis, spinal narrowing, or injury.
The medical term often used for this condition is cervical radiculopathy. Because nerves in the neck travel into the shoulders, arms, hands, and fingers, discomfort may show up far from the spine itself.
Signs Your Neck Pain May Involve a Nerve
Nerve-related discomfort often feels different from simple muscle soreness. These issues can affect work, sleep, driving, and everyday activities.
You may notice:
- Pain that travels from the neck into the shoulder, arm, or hand
- Tingling or “pins and needles”
- Numbness in the arm, hand, or fingers
- Weakness when gripping, lifting, or reaching
- Discomfort that worsens with certain head or neck positions
- Pain that does not improve with rest or time
When Neck Pain May Be More Than Muscle Strain
Muscle strain usually stays localized gradually improves. Nerve-related pain is more likely to radiate, burn, tingle, or cause weakness.
Progressive weakness, worsening numbness, or loss of function should be evaluated promptly. Neck pain after a car accident or work injury also deserves careful attention, especially when discomfort travels into the arm or hand.
How a Spine Specialist Can Help
A spine evaluation may include a discussion of what you are feeling, your medical history, a physical exam, and imaging if needed. The goal is to understand where the irritation is coming from and whether it is improving or progressing.
At Northwest Spine Surgery, we pursue conservative measures fully before recommending surgery unless progressive loss of function or severe pain requires faster intervention. When surgery is appropriate, your provider will explain your options clearly.
Get Answers for Neck and Nerve Pain
Numbness, weakness, or loss of function should not be ignored, especially when it is getting worse. A thorough evaluation can help clarify what is happening and what next steps make sense.
To schedule an appointment or contact our team, call 503-253-4000 and reach out to Northwest Spine Surgery in Portland, OR, today.
