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.
More information on Radiculopathy
American Chronic Pain Association
American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons
Back.com