Radiculopathy

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Radiculopathy
Lateral view of cervical vertebrae
Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Pain, numbness, tingling, muscle weakness
Complications	Chronic pain, muscle atrophy
Onset	Typically middle age
Duration	Varies, can be chronic
Types	N/A
Causes	Herniated disc, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease
Risks	Age, occupational hazards, trauma
Diagnosis	Physical examination, MRI, CT scan, nerve conduction study
Differential diagnosis	Peripheral neuropathy, myelopathy, plexopathy
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Physical therapy, medications, surgery
Medication	NSAIDs, corticosteroids, muscle relaxants
Prognosis	N/A
Frequency	Common
Deaths	N/A

Radiculopathy is a condition caused by compression, inflammation, or injury to a spinal nerve root. This pressure or damage can cause neurological symptoms such as pain, numbness, or weakness radiating from the affected nerve.

CT of spondylosis causing radiculopathy

Causes

• Radiculopathy can be caused by several conditions, including:
• Spinal disc herniation: This occurs when the soft center of a spinal disc pushes through a crack in the tougher exterior casing.
• Spinal stenosis: This is a narrowing of the spaces within your spine, which can put pressure on the nerves that travel through the spine.
• Bone spurs: These are bony projections that form along the edges of bones and can compress spinal nerves.
• Injury: Any injury that impacts the spine can potentially cause radiculopathy.

Symptoms

Symptoms of radiculopathy can vary based on the location of the affected nerve. However, common symptoms can include pain that radiates from the neck or back into the arms or legs, numbness or decreased sensation in the area served by the affected nerves, and muscle weakness.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Radiculopathy is typically diagnosed through a combination of a physical examination and imaging studies such as X-ray, MRI, or CT scan. Treatment often involves conservative measures, such as physical therapy, pain-relieving medications, and corticosteroid injections. In more severe cases, or if conservative treatments are not effective, surgery may be required.

See Also

• Spinal disc herniation
• Spinal stenosis
• Physical Therapy

References

• "Radiculopathy". Mayo Clinic.
• "Radiculopathy". Johns Hopkins Medicine.
• "Radiculopathy". Cleveland Clinic.

External Links

Radiculopathy - MedlinePlus Radiculopathy - American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons