Local Vibration in Cervical Radiculopathy

Can Local Vibration be Used to Alleviate Symptoms of Cervical Radiculopathy?

The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of local vibration application on the upper extremity pain, paresthesia, neck pain, and limitations in cervical joint range of motion experienced by patients with cervical radiculopathy.

At least 34 patients diagnosed with cervical radiculopathy who meet the inclusion and exclusion criteria will be included in the study. Subsequently, the patients will be randomly divided into two groups. Patients in the first group will receive placebo local vibration application in addition to conventional treatment, while patients in the second group will receive local vibration application in addition to conventional treatment

Inclusion Criteria:

• 1. Between the ages of 18 and 70,
• 2. Nerve root compression according to the magnetic resonance imaging,
• 3. Unilateral or bilateral neck pain rated 3 or higher on the Numeric Pain Rating Scale, or neck pain with paresthesia or upper extremity pain rated 3 or higher on the Numeric Pain Rating Scale.

Exclusion Criteria:

• 1. History of previous cervical or thoracic spinal surgery,
• 2. Symptoms or signs of upper motor neuron disorder,
• 3. Body mass index (BMI) higher than 35 kg/m2,
• 4. Having received spinal injection in the last two weeks,
• 5. Presence of local infection at the application site,
• 6. Upper extremity nerve entrapment syndrome (such as carpal tunnel or cubital tunnel syndrome),
• 7. Diagnosis of systemic inflammatory arthritis (such as rheumatoid arthritis, etc.),
• 8. Having engaged in strenuous exercise in the last 24 hours,
• 9. Poor or noncompliance to the treatment program