Radiculopathy
Radiculopathy — commonly known as a pinched nerve — can cause significant pain and functional limitations. Apteum Spine specializes in identifying the precise location of nerve compression and providing targeted treatment.
What Is Radiculopathy?
Radiculopathy is a condition caused by compression, inflammation, or injury to a spinal nerve root. The compressed nerve can cause pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness along the path of the nerve. Depending on which nerve is affected, symptoms can occur in the neck, upper back, lower back, arms, or legs. The three main types are cervical radiculopathy (neck), thoracic radiculopathy (mid-back), and lumbar radiculopathy (lower back).
Causes of Radiculopathy
The most common causes of radiculopathy include herniated discs, bone spurs from arthritis, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, and spondylolisthesis. Less common causes include spinal infections, tumors, diabetes-related nerve damage, and scar tissue from previous spinal surgery. Risk factors include age, repetitive spinal motions, and obesity.
Diagnosis and Evaluation
Diagnosing radiculopathy typically involves a thorough physical examination, including tests for reflexes, muscle strength, and sensation. Imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans can reveal the source of nerve compression. Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies may be used to assess nerve function and pinpoint the exact location of the problem.
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