What exactly is neural foramina encroachment (at C6-C7)??
Answer Dear Virginia, Neuroforaminal encroachment is when the neuroforamen has been partially blocked or has a reduced size due to either bulging disk material, tumor processes, or degeneration (bone spurring from arthritic changes). The neuroforamen are the holes that are located on each side of the vertebra that allow the nerve roots to exit the spinal cord, and send information to the rest of the body. Every vertebra has two of them. The level of C6-C7 is at the bottom of the neck and includes the c6 nerve root which goes into the mid portion of the arms to include the lateral portion of the forearm and the thumb, so it is likely that you may have symptoms in that area is the nerve has been irritated or injured. For a better understanding of the anatomy described, please check out the following links below: http://suncoasthealthcare.net/chiropracticinformation/spinalanatomy-overview.htm… http://suncoasthealthcare.net/chiropracticinformation/spinalanatomy-detail.html Hope this help
