04/12/2025
C7 nerve compression is one of the most common causes of neck pain that radiates down the arm. When the C7 nerve becomes irritated, the pain usually follows a very specific path that starts from the lower neck and moves into the shoulder blade, the back of the arm, and often reaches the middle finger.
Many patients describe it as a burning line of pain, numbness, or weakness that makes lifting objects difficult.
The most frequent causes are disc herniation in the cervical spine or cervical spondylitis that narrows the space around the nerve. This creates pressure that triggers headaches, neck stiffness, and a sharp sensation when turning the head.
Diagnosis requires a focused physical examination with the support of MRI or nerve conduction studies to confirm where the compression is occurring.
Treatment depends on the severity. Most cases respond beautifully to specialized manual therapy like Neuroskeletal Therapy, combined with targeted exercises and inflammation control.
If you feel pain traveling from your neck down to your arm and into the middle finger, do not ignore it. Early intervention prevents long term nerve irritation and restores strength and comfort to daily life.
Dr Walid Abou Dehn
Sydney Back Clinic
Keeping your spine healthy and your life pain free
