Radiculopathy
What is radiculopathy?
Radiculopathy is a condition caused by compression or irritation of a nerve root in the spine. It occurs when one of the nerve roots, where the nerves join the spinal column, is pinched. This condition can result in painful, numb, or tingly sensations in the vicinity of the affected nerve.
Depending on the location of the pinched nerve along the spine, radiculopathy is classified into three types: cervical radiculopathy (neck), thoracic radiculopathy (upper middle back), and lumbar radiculopathy (low back).
What are the symptoms of radiculopathy?
When a nerve root undergoes compression, it becomes inflamed, leading to various unpleasant symptoms. These may include:
- Sharp pain in the back, arms, legs, or shoulders, which might intensify during certain activities, such as coughing or sneezing.
- Weakness or a decline in reflexes in the arms or legs.
- Numbness, "pins and needles," or other abnormal sensations (also known as paresthesia) in the arms or legs.
The specific symptoms you encounter will depend on the location in the spine where the nerve root is pinched. At NeuroSpine Plus, we understand the significance of addressing these issues. Our team is dedicated to diagnosing and providing the most appropriate treatment options tailored to your individual needs.
What are the causes of radiculopathy?
Radiculopathy, commonly associated with aging, can result from degeneration and bulging of the spinal discs. The aging process also leads to drying out and stiffening of the spine's discs. To counteract these changes, the body forms bone spurs to fortify the discs. However, this causes the narrowing of the nerve root exit, resulting in nerve compression.
At NeuroSpine Plus, we understand that radiculopathy can stem from various factors, including:
Our team of experts is well-equipped to diagnose and treat radiculopathy, providing personalized care to address your specific needs. Trust NeuroSpine Plus for comprehensive and effective solutions for radiculopathy.
What are the treatments for radiculopathy?
In some instances, the symptoms of radiculopathy may improve naturally without requiring immediate medical intervention. However, if persistent pain or other symptoms persist, it is advisable to consult the healthcare professionals at NeuroSpine Plus, who will assess the symptoms and location of the affected nerve root to determine the most suitable surgical procedure. Non-surgical treatments recommended for radiculopathy may include:
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Rest or modification of activities
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Physical therapy
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Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to alleviate pain
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Spine steroid injections
For individuals with radiculopathy associated with underlying conditions, NeuroSpine Plus may suggest surgical interventions including:
By seeking expert guidance and individualized treatment plans from NeuroSpine Plus, patients can effectively address radiculopathy and related conditions.
Radiculopathy FAQ
Myelopathy, a condition caused by spinal cord compression, can impact the entire spinal cord’s functionality. On the other hand, radiculopathy is a result of nerve root compression, occurring when specific nerves along the spine become pinched.
Radiculopathy is relatively uncommon. Although neck pain and back pain, particularly in the lower back, are frequently encountered, they are rarely attributable to radiculopathy.
If left untreated, cervical radiculopathy can result in worsening pain for individuals. Moreover, the progression of damage may occur, potentially leading to irreversible consequences.