C7 nerve root

When a nerve root is compressed at the level of the seventh cervical vertebra (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.

A pinched nerve at the C7 level might produce weakness or numbness in the middle finger, reduce the triceps reflex and make it difficult to straighten the elbow, flex the wrist or extend the fingers.

The symptoms of C7 nerve compression normally can be managed using conservative treatments, such as pain medication, physical therapy, behavior modification and more. However, if debilitating pain and other symptoms persist after weeks or months of conservative treatment, surgery may become an option.

C7 radiculopathy

Donor-side morbidity associated with contralateral C7 nerve transfer (CC7) remains controversial.