Clinical Reasoning in Cervical vs Peripheral Neuropathies

Cervical radiculopathy is examined alongside common upper-limb neuropathies, with a focus on how to distinguish root-related symptoms from radial, median, and ulnar nerve problems. Learners are introduced to key definitions, including the difference between neuropathic pain and neuropathy, and how gain of function symptoms such as shooting pain or tingling differ from loss of function signs such as weakness, sensory loss, and reduced reflexes. A structured clinical reasoning framework is outlined, beginning with subjective clues and neuroanatomical plausibility, then moving to neurological testing, reflexes, and symptom provocation procedures. The session explains why overlap in sensory and motor patterns makes diagnosis difficult and shows how cross-checking muscles, sensory territories, and provocative tests can improve accuracy. Particular attention is given to LOAF muscles for distinguishing median and ulnar involvement, and to selected tests for radial neuropathy and cervical radiculopathy. A detailed patient case demonstrates how apparent radiculopathy can coexist with or mask another problem, highlighting the value of imaging, nerve studies, and reconsidering the diagnosis when findings do not fully match expectations.