Can A Pinched C6 Nerve Cause Atrophy In Forearm?

Posted on Mon, 22 Aug 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 22 Aug 2016 Answered on

Tue, 13 Sep 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : Can a pinched c6 nerve cause atrophy in forearm or c7 in hand?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
C7 supplies the triceps muscle of the arm.

Detailed Answer:
Hello and thanks for using HCM.

I have read your question and understand your concerns.

A pinched nerve at the C6-C7 level affects the C7 nerve root.

Sensitive changes are localized at middle finger.

The C7 nerve root supplies the triceps muscle of the arm, it shouldn't cause forearm atrophy.

Get nerve conduction study and cervical spine MRI done to identify the affected nerve and the level.

Hope you found the answer helpful.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Greetings.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (3 hours later)

But can these nerves being pinched cause atrophy in bicep tricep forearm or hand?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (4 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Yes, is possible.

Detailed Answer:
Welcome back.

The nerves can be compressed during their pathway in arm, forearm and wrist at certain narrow passages ( tunnel syndromes ) resulting in sensory changes. pain and/or atrophy.

Nerve conduction study and EMG gives a correct information about these conditions.

Hope this helps.

Regards.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Priyanka G Raj