Radiculopathy
Radiculopathy is a term used to describe symptoms associated with an impinged (compressed) or inflamed nerve root in the central nervous system. It is characterized by motor and / or sensory changes in the neck, radiating to the arms or the legs and feet, which result from external pressure on the nerve root. This pressure is generally caused by the swelling of osteophytes which is the material that the discs in the spine are made of. Radiculopathy occurs anywhere along the spine but is most often observed in the cervical (upper) and lumbar (lower) regions of the spine. Radiculopathy along the spine can cause pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness along the course of the impinged or inflamed nerve.
Cause or Possible Risk Factors
- Affected nerves may be inflamed, pinched (compressed), or working ineffectively due to a lack of blood flow or trauma
- Radiculopathy may be caused by compression or irritation of the nerves as they exit the spine
- Mechanical compression of the nerves is from a tumor or infection
- Diabetes which can decrease the normal blood flow to the spinal nerves
- Degeneration can lead to radiculopathy from direct irritation of the nerves
- Radiculopathy may be caused by presence of a herniated disc in the spine.
- Pinched nerves, bone spurs, spinal stenosis, and foraminal stenosis.
Symptoms
- Pain, numbness and tingling in the arms or legs
- Neck pain that may radiate into the shoulder and arm
- Loss of muscle strength in the affected area
- Back and neck pain that "travels" along the nerve root to other areas of the body
For more information on the conditions we treat and services we offer, or to book an appointment please call us on 416 489 5313 (Finch) / 416 604 4404 (Jane) or email us at info@physiowell.ca.
