When a nerve root is compressed at the level of the seventh cervical vertebra (C7) (cervical disc herniation C6-C7), a patient will present with C7 radiculopathy, lower arm and along the medial border of the scapula. However, for patients with a pinched nerve at the C7 level, this might only scratch the surface of the potential debilitating symptoms.
triceps reflex diminished
forearm ext (wrist drop) motor weakness
fingers 2 & 3, all fingertips paresthesia & hypesthesia
C7 cervical radiculopathy might present with cervicogenic angina and pose a clinical diagnosis challenge given its similarity in clinical presentation with other clinical conditions like myocardial infarction. Clinicians should have a high index of suspicion to differentiate the two conditions. Nevertheless, ruling out firstly myocardial infarction and pulmonary embolism among patients presenting with chest pain is of clinical benefit in terms of morbidity and mortality of a patient. Furthermore, proper and timely physical examination should be emphasized to be conducted to every patient so as to avoid delayed diagnosis and management 1).
see C4 radiculopathy
see C5 radiculopathy
see C6 radiculopathy
see C8 radiculopathy