Radiculopathy is a term that encompasses several symptoms and regions of the spine. The most common type is sciatica. The symptoms of radiculopathy are pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness in the arms or legs. The cause these symptoms is compression of a nerve root in the spinal column. The symptoms will depend on the part of the spine experiencing compression. It’s most common in the neck or lower back and occurs when there are problems with the vertebrae or their discs.

Compression in the lumbar area causes sciatica. Symptoms of sciatica include pain and numbness from the spinal nerve root location to the legs or feet. Causes of this condition include cancer, bone disease, bone spurs, and disc herniation. Compression in the cervical area can cause pain in the arms, upper back, shoulders, or neck. This most often occurs in people who are 30 to 60 years old and generally affects C5-C7. The causes include cancer, bone disease, spondylosis, disc degeneration, and herniated disc.

EMG/NCS Testing Helps Diagnose Sciatica

The first step in diagnosis is a review of medical history and symptoms. Then, if your doctor  suspects radiculopathy, he or she will order additional tests. At the initial appointment, your doctor will examine you. As a result of the exam, you may undergo imaging studies to see what’s going on in the spine. An MRI or CT scan may be used. EMG/NCS testing may also be used to measure your nerve signaling and muscle response. Treatment for radiculopathy may include over the counter pain medications, steroid injections to decrease inflammation in the affected area, oral steroids, or anti-seizure medication. Some additional options include physical therapy. This therapy will focus on decreasing pain, improving posture, and strengthening muscles.  For extreme cases, you might need a surgical procedure to alleviate spinal nerve compression. The severity of the condition will determine the course of treatment.

Feel free to contact our office to schedule an appointment.