Non-surgical interventional treatment of cervical and thoracic radiculopathies.

Abstract

Cervical and thoracic radiculopathies are among the most common causes of neck pain. Outcome studies of conservative treatments have shown varying results and have not been well controlled or systematic. Although there has not yet been a non-surgical interventional procedure developed with the therapeutic efficacy of open surgery, conservative procedures can offer substantial benefits, are less invasive, and avoid surgical complications. While more invasive procedures may be appropriate when conservative treatment fails, prospective studies evaluating cervical and thoracic radiculopathy treatment options would help guide practitioners toward optimally cost-effective patient evaluation and care.