Radiculopathy
What is Radiculopathy?
Nerve roots exit the spine and enter the body. If one of these roots is
sick or injured in the area where it leaves the spine, it is called a
radiculopathy. Some disease states can cause this, but more often it is
a mechanical cause like a herniated disc, bone spur, or stretching event.
This can cause numbness, tingling, pain, and weakness.
Who Gets Radiculopathy?
Anyone can get a radiculopathy. Sometimes it is caused by a herniated
disc, and sometimes it is caused by an injury.
How is Radiculopathy Diagnosed?
After taking the patient's history, a physician may perform some physical
tests, an EMG, an X-ray, or MRI.
How is Radiculopathy Treated?
Treatment can include medication, physical therapy, steroid injection
in the spine, and even surgery.
To Find a Specialist
To find a physician board-certified to conduct needle EMGs and nerve conduction
studies click here: www.abemexam.org
For More Information:
American Chronic Pain Association:
www.theacpa.org
American Association of Orthopaedic
Surgeons: www.aaos.org
Back.com: www.back.com
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