Robert Moghim MD
Anchor Healthcare
Radiculopathy
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Radiculopathy happens when a spinal nerve gets pinched, causing pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness. It mainly affects the neck (cervical spine) or lower back (lumbar spine), though it can less commonly occur in the mid-back (thoracic spine). Diagnosis involves a physical exam to check nerve function, reflexes, and pain patterns. Imaging tests like MRI, CT scans, or X-rays may pinpoint the source of compression.
The spine consists of nerves that send signals from the brain to the body. When a nerve is compressed, radiating pain and mobility issues result. Common causes include herniated discs, where a spinal disc bulges and presses on a nerve, or bone spurs—extra bony growths on the spine. Age-related wear and tear (degenerative changes) also contribute to radiculopathy.
Symptoms depend on the affected nerve. Cervical radiculopathy (neck) may cause pain, numbness, or weakness in the shoulder, arm, or hand. Lumbar radiculopathy (lower back), often referred to as sciatica, causes pain down the leg. Thoracic radiculopathy (mid-back) is rare but can cause pain around the chest or abdomen.
Treatment aims to reduce pain and relieve nerve pressure. Physical therapy and exercises improve flexibility and strengthen muscles. Anti-inflammatories and epidural steroid injections can provide relief. If symptoms persist and affect daily life, surgery may be necessary to make more space for the nerve.
Regenerative therapies, such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections or treatments with fat or bone marrow-derived cells, might support healing and reduce inflammation.
Early treatment is crucial to prevent long-term nerve damage and improve mobility. Talk to our team for the best treatment plan.
FAQs
How is radiculopathy diagnosed?
Radiculopathy is diagnosed through a combination of clinical evaluation, including a physical exam and neurological tests, to assess nerve function, reflexes, and pain patterns. Imaging tests such as MRI or CT scans are utilized to confirm nerve root compression and pinpoint the exact cause.
What are the potential risks of untreated radiculopathy?
Untreated radiculopathy can lead to chronic pain and long-term complications. Risks include neurological deficits like muscle atrophy and loss of reflexes, as well as more severe outcomes such as bladder or bowel dysfunction. In extreme cases, it can result in disability, affecting mobility and day-to-day functioning. Early treatment is crucial to prevent these complications.
What are the symptoms of radiculopathy for different spine regions?
Symptoms vary depending on the affected spine area. Cervical radiculopathy involves pain, numbness, or weakness in the neck, shoulder, or arm areas. Lumbar radiculopathy, often known as sciatica, results in pain that radiates from the lower back down the legs. Thoracic radiculopathy, which is less common, may cause pain around the chest or abdomen.
What are the treatment options available for radiculopathy?
Treatment for radiculopathy aims to alleviate pain and relieve nerve pressure. Conservative management includes physical therapy to improve flexibility and strength, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and epidural steroid injections for pain relief. If symptoms persist and impair daily activities, surgical interventions such as minimally invasive procedures like microdiscectomy may be considered.
What is radiculopathy and what causes it?
Radiculopathy is a condition stemming from the compression or irritation of spinal nerve roots, resulting in pain, numbness, weakness, or tingling in the affected areas. It is commonly associated with the cervical (neck) or lumbar (lower back) regions, though thoracic cases can also occur. Main causes include herniated discs, bone spurs (abnormal bone growth), and degenerative changes like spondylosis or foraminal stenosis.