Physical Therapy Assistant Practice Exam

What condition is characterized by radiating pain and/or paresthesias into the upper extremity?

1. Cervical radiculopathy

2. Thoracic outlet syndrome

3. Brachial plexus injury

4. Rotator cuff tear

The correct answer is: Cervical radiculopathy

Cervical radiculopathy is the correct response as it describes a condition specifically marked by the transmission of pain or abnormal sensations, such as tingling or numbness (paresthesias), from the cervical spine (the neck region) into the upper extremities, which include the arms and hands. This condition occurs when a nerve root in the cervical spine becomes compressed or irritated, often due to herniated discs, degenerative changes, or other spinal pathologies. The symptoms can vary based on which cervical nerve root is affected, and they typically follow a dermatomal pattern, meaning the pain and paresthesias will manifest in specific areas corresponding to the affected nerve’s distribution. Hence, this condition is distinctly associated with the radiating nature of the discomfort into the arms. On the other hand, thoracic outlet syndrome involves compression in the areas where nerves and blood vessels pass from the neck to the upper limb, which can also cause upper extremity symptoms but is usually more associated with restrictions in blood flow and more generalized arm and neck pain rather than a directly radiated nerve pain pattern. A brachial plexus injury involves trauma to the network of nerves supplying the arm, potentially causing weakness, loss of function, and pain