Radiculopathies
Exploring Radiculopathy: Understanding Nerve Compression
Radiculopathy denotes a pinched nerve within the spine. This condition emerges when neighboring bones, cartilage, muscles, or tendons undergo deterioration or sustain injury. Such trauma prompts a positional shift of these tissues, leading to additional pressure on the nerve roots embedded in the spinal cord. Various types of radiculopathy are distinguished based on the specific location of the compressed nerve.
- Lumbar Radiculopathy: Characterized by pressure on the nerve root in the lower back
- Cervical Radiculopathy: Involves pressure on the nerve root in the neck
- Thoracic Radiculopathy: Pertains to a pinched nerve in the midsection of the spine
Potential triggers for radiculopathy encompass infection, obesity, pregnancy, diabetes, trauma, arthritis, and the development of additional bone or bone spurs in vulnerable areas.
Typical Symptoms
Symptoms associated with lumbar or cervical radiculopathy encompass:
- Sharp back pain radiating down to the foot; aggravated by sitting or coughing
- Pins and needles sensation or numbness in the leg or foot’s skin
- Weakness and tingling in the back, neck, arm, or leg
- Diminished reflexes
- Shoulder or arm discomfort
Diagnostic Process
Your medical history will be reviewed, and your symptoms discussed with a physician. Certain movements might be assessed to gauge the functionality of your nerves and muscles. Imaging procedures like X-rays, computed tomography (CT) scans, electromyelography (EMG), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be employed to identify and diagnose your condition. In some instances, a contrast material may be injected into your spinal canal to enhance visualization of the affected area.
Navigating Treatment Options
Treatment strategies are contingent upon multiple factors, notably the nature of the issue. Nonsurgical or surgical interventions may be employed:
Nonsurgical approaches typically encompass soft collars, physical therapy, and medications like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories, corticosteroids, and steroid injections.
Surgical options are diverse, ranging from spinal fusion and disc replacement to laminoforaminotomy (also known as open decompression), involving the removal of compressing bone. Emerging minimally invasive alternatives can also be discussed with your healthcare team.
Positive outcomes are commonly observed with nonsurgical treatments, leading to improvement or full recovery from radiculopathy. The proficient surgeons at North Carolina Neuroscience & Spine Center are well-equipped to guide your treatment decision. They possess comprehensive training in the latest techniques, specializing in diagnosing and managing brain, spine, and peripheral nerve disorders and diseases. To schedule an appointment with North Carolina Neuroscience & Spine Center, please contact us at 919-784-7550.
Book an Appointment Today!
The care team at North Carolina Neuroscience & Spine Center can help you decide on the treatment that's best for you. They specialize in minimally invasive surgery and are experienced in diagnosing and treating disorders and diseases, using the newest techniques for relieving pain and returning you to an active lifestyle. To make an appointment at North Carolina Neuroscience & Spine Center call 919-784-7550.
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