Cervical Collar, Physical Therapy, or “Wait and See” for Recent-Onset Cervical Radiculopathy?

Recent-onset cervical radiculopathy is characterized by pain that radiates from the neck to the arm; motor and sensory deficits corresponding to the involved nerve can be present. Symptoms and signs usually resolve spontaneously within 6 weeks; however, pain during this period can be excruciating and debilitating. Dutch investigators randomized 205 patients with recent-onset (<1 month duration) cervical radiculopathy to one of three treatment regimens:

• A semi-hard foam cervical collar with extra reinforcement (Cerviflex S) plus rest for 3 to 6 weeks

• 12 twice-weekly physical therapy (PT) sessions and home exercises for 6 weeks; no cervical traction

• Continued daily activities without specific treatment (“wait-and-see” control group)

After 6 weeks…