One of the first things to know is that many individuals have abnormal MRI findings, such as cervical foraminal narrowing, without experiencing symptoms. In some cases, structural changes shown in imaging don’t correlate with pain or dysfunction. Symptoms depend on whether the nerves are irritated.
Cervical foraminal narrowing happens when the openings (foramina) in the spine where nerves exit become smaller, sometimes putting pressure on the nerves. This can lead to symptoms like neck pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms.
When you tilt your head to one side — like stretching the right side by tilting to the left — you naturally compress the joints and narrow the foraminal space on the opposite side. This movement is usually well-tolerated, but if your nerves are already irritated, it could increase symptoms.
Recommendations:
- Monitor Symptoms: If side neck tilts or any neck movements induce or worsen symptoms like numbness, tingling, or radiating pain into the arms, it’s advisable to discontinue those specific stretches.
- Engage in Gentle Stretching: Incorporate gentle neck stretches that don’t provoke symptoms. Exercises such as chin tucks, where you gently pull your chin back to align your head over your shoulders, can strengthen neck muscles and improve posture without excessive compression.
- Strengthen Supporting Muscles: Focus on strengthening the deep cervical flexor muscles and the muscles around the shoulder blades. This approach can enhance neck stability and alleviate some pressure on the cervical spine.
- Consult a Healthcare Professional: Before continuing or initiating any new exercise regimen, especially with a condition like cervical foraminal narrowing, consult with a physical therapist or healthcare provider. They can provide personalized guidance tailored to your specific condition.
In summary, while side neck tilts can be beneficial for muscle flexibility, they may pose risks if they exacerbate nerve compression symptoms. Prioritizing gentle stretching, strengthening exercises, and professional guidance can help manage your condition effectively.
Need personalized guidance? A physical therapist can help you find the safest and most effective exercises, particularly if you are wondering how you can tell if you have a pinched nerve.
Consider scheduling an appointment with your local Therapeutic Associates Physical Therapy clinic asap. Your PT can partner with you to make the best decision for the treatment of the problem and can help explain what is happening, how long it should take to recover, and what can be done to treat it.
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