Radiculopathy and Cervical Nerve Root Fibrous Bands

Review written by: James Demetrious, DC, DABCO

Throughout my career, I’ve been interested in the anatomy, physiology and biomechanics of the IVF. What occurs at this level? What are the morphologic affects of degenerative joint disease on the cervical nerve roots? What is the effect of ligamentous tethering through foraminal ligaments due to dynamic forces transmitted through the nerve root? Does it affect CSF flow through the terminal dorsal nerve root sleeve? 

In the article published in the journal Spine in July, 2021 entitled, “Fibrous Connection Between Cervical Nerve and Zygapophysial Joint and Implication of the Cervical Spondylotic Radiculopathy,” Kagawa et al. offer an observational, anatomic, cadaveric study related to the fibrous connection between the cervical nerves and the zygapophyseal joints capsules.

The authors offer clarity related to the fibrous bands connecting the cervical nerves to the zygapophyseal joint capsules. In doing so, they shed light upon the pathology of cervical spine spondyltic radiculopathy and associated dynamic factors. The authors report, “Our results indicate that the tensile stress caused by movement of the zygapophysial joints could be transmitted to the cervical nerves via the fibrous bands.” These findings are of significant interest to the chiropractic physician.

Through PostGradDC, we recognize that anatomic and pathophysiologic observations can provide significant insight with regard to benefits attained through chiropractic care. We seek to elevate the chiropractic profession through coursework based in new literature combined with advanced clinical insight. For coursework that focuses on improved outcomes, consider PostGradDC.