Radiculopathy



Cervical Radiculopathy

Radiculopathy is a condition arise due to a compressed nerve in the spine that can cause pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness. Radiculopathy can occur in any part of the spine, but it is most common in the lower back (lumbar radiculopathy) and in the neck (cervical radiculopathy). Radiculopathy is not a specific condition, but rather a description of a problem in which one or more nerves are affected and do not work properly. In a radiculopathy, the problem is at or near the root of the nerve, along the spine. However, the pain or other symptoms may manifest in an extremity through a process called referred pain. For example, a nerve root impingement in the neck can produce pain and weakness in the forearm. Likewise, an impingement in the lower back or lumbar-sacral spine can be manifested with symptoms in the foot.

Treatment

Effective treatment aims to resolve the underlying cause and restores the nerve root to normal function. Common mainstream treatment approaches include physical therapy, medication, and relaxation. The majority of radiculopathy patients respond well to conservative treatment such as anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy or chiropractic treatment, and avoiding activity that strains the neck or back.and symptoms often improve within six weeks to three months.

The patients does not respond to above methods may benefit from an epidural steroid injection. With the help of an X-ray machine, a physician injects steroid medication between the bones of the spine adjacent to the involved nerves. This can help to rapidly reduce the inflammation and irritation of the nerve and help reduce the symptoms of radiculopathy.