Understanding C7 Nerve Root Compression

What’s Happening

C7 Nerve Root: This nerve exits the spinal cord at the 7th cervical vertebra (C7), located in the lower part of the neck.

Pathway: After leaving the spinal cord, the C7 nerve travels down the shoulder, along the back of the upper arm and forearm, sometimes extending into the middle finger.

Pain Distribution (Red Area): The red-shaded region in the diagram represents where symptoms—such as pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness—may occur when the C7 nerve is compressed or irritated. This condition is often called C7 radiculopathy.

Common Causes of a Pinched C7 Nerve

Herniated disc

Degenerative disc disease

Bone spurs (osteophytes)

Spinal stenosis