What You Can Do to Feel Better:
Don't panic and freeze up! Here's how you can help yourself recover:

• Keep Moving: Light cardio like walking is your friend.

It helps bring down inflammation.

• Exercise Wars? Not Really: Specific neck exercises can be helpful

but general exercise is just as good. Think mixing things up!

• Don't Be a Statue: Staying still for long periods can make things worse.

​Keep a good level of activity that doesn't worsen your symptoms.
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Why PT Rocks (But You Don't Have To Be There All the Time):
Physical therapists can be your partner in healing. They offer some awesome benefits:

• Expert Advice: Get all your questions answered and ditch the fear and uncertainty.
• Temporary Relief Techniques: Taping and fancy PT moves (like cervical distraction) can make your life less miserable while you heal.
• Personalized Exercise Programs: They'll cook up a program to keep you active and on the road to recovery.

Here's the kicker: you probably don't need PT appointments 2-3 times a week for months. With a good program, you can see a PT every few weeks, stay in touch for guidance, and get back to feeling fantastic.
Imaging (X-rays, MRIs):
These aren't always your best bet. Images can show abnormalities that don't cause pain and might just freak you out.

When Are Images Needed?
Only in certain situations, like if you experience the same symptoms in both arms or legs (pain, numbness, tingling), have balance problems while walking, or weakness that's getting progressively worse.
The Bottom Line:

Cervical radiculopathy can be a real pain, but it's usually treatable. By understanding the condition and taking an active approach in your recovery, you can be your own advocate and get back to living your life.


Disclaimer: This is general information, not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

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So, how do you pick the right shoes?
My advice is always the same:

• Focus on comfort: The best shoe is the one that feels best on your feet. Personal preference is key! Try on lots of pairs and even have a short run (if the store allows) to see which ones feel the most natural.
• Avoid overly soft soles: Shoes that are too soft may actually make your legs work harder, reducing the natural spring-like action of your leg tissues. This can put extra stress on those tissues.
• Check for defects: Even good shoes can have defects. Look for poor stitching, odd shapes, or anything that might cause discomfort.

If the problem isn't your shoes, what is it?
Just because you can run doesn't always mean you should start running without preparation. Like any sport, running requires proper technique, strength, and gradual training progression. Here's what you should focus on:

• Start with a smart running program: An individualized program can make a huge difference in load progression and injury prevention.
• Strength training is key: Single-leg training will greatly decrease your risk of injury (and no, it won't bulk you up or slow you down!). Stronger tissues handle stress better and can improve your running form. Don't neglect foot strengthening either!
• Boost your running power: Include plyometric exercises (like one and two-leg hops) to improve your power and ability to absorb force.
• Increase your cadence: Shoot for a 5% increase in your steps per minute over time. This can reduce strain on your body.
• Get a professional running assessment: If you're serious, this can uncover specific muscle weaknesses and areas for improvement in your running technique.

The Bottom Line
Following these tips sets you up for injury-free running success. With the right approach, you won't need to obsess over your shoes.
Johan Arango, Physical Therapist