Joseph Amos MD

Radiculopathy

What is Radiculopathy?

Radiculopathy, or radicular pain, is a condition where a nerve in the spine is compressed, producing pain or weakness in the nerve. Sometimes referred to as a pinched nerve or sciatica, it can occur in the neck or low back.

What causes Radiculopathy?

At times, a disc herniation or arthritis leading to stenosis (narrowing) can compress the nerve root.

What do patients commonly experience?

Shooting or burning pain down the arm or leg, often associated with numbness, tingling, or possibly weakness in a specific nerve root distribution(s).

The place where the symptoms are felt depends on the region of nerve injury along the spine. Sensation or pain can be felt in the neck, arms, trunk or legs if the nerves of the neck, thorax, or lower back are inflamed.

How is it diagnosed?

The first step to diagnose radicular (arm or leg) pain is to perform a thorough physical examination and carefully consider your medical and family history.

How is it treated?

Some of the treatments for Radiculopathy include:

  • Oral medications
  • Physical therapy
  • Epidural steroid injections
  • Surgical decompression in refractory cases.
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